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Ok. Relax. Breath In. Breath Out.

DO NOT PANIC.
Sitting at the reception area of a posh office, Jimin struggled to contain his nerves.  He straightened his back and adjusted his glasses. He had come to the office of a gaming company for an interview. For a very unusual position which had nothing to do with the company’s business.It would torment his parents if they find out what he was about to do. He was interviewing to be a personal social escort for someone in the company. That’s right, you heard it right – Park Jimin, the greatest nerd in South Korea (and probably Planet Earth) was applying to be a social escort. Everything in life had a first time.From his reflection in the mirrored-glass, Jimin was aware of how ridiculous he must have looked. He was in a bright yellow flannel shirt matched with sparky white jeans. His raven hair was combed upwards like a Russ troll doll. Yet, according to Hoseok, this is an ideal style for acing interviews for male escorts. His best-friend-and-flatmate had matched his outfit and styled his hair.“Mr. Park?” The pretty receptionist smiled at Jimin. “This way, please.”The click of the receptionist’s heels echoed down the hallway as Jimin followed her, taking in the games and character posters framed in acrylic glasses on the walls. He’d heard of V Inc., currently the most famous gaming company in Asia which gamers and developers would kill to work for. He had no clue which individual from the company is hiring him as a social escort – his agency had kept the details confidential.The receptionist stopped outside the door at the end of the hallway. She mouthed a “good luck” to Jimin. Her faltering smile as her eyes swept over Jimin’s clothes told him he really needed luck.  Tonnes of it.Shoving unpleasant thoughts aside, Jimin knocked on the door. He pushed it opened and stepped in.A young man stood before the glass window overlooking the city below. Jimin had pictured his potential first client to be a middle-aged balding man with a pot belly.What Jimin hadn’t expected was a young man in an immaculate suit. Light from the window accentuated the man’s side profile; the perfect ridge of his nose, his chiselled jawline and the dark suit that complimented his body frame. He looked ethereal, reminding Jimin of those pretty boys in Shojo mangas that Hoseok always gushed over.Except that he looked better.Jimin thought Mr. Ethereal didn’t belong to the mortal world. Mr. Ethereal looked like an angel. Until said Mr. Ethereal turned his face and smiled at him, a wicked glint in his eyes.  Devil’s eyes.And that face - Kim Taehyung. Oh, oh, oh.Jimin’s heart flipped at the sight of Kim Tae Hyung, the founder of V Inc. Jimin had seen Taehyung in news and tabloids, and remembered he’d looked handsome in those pictures. But Kim Taehyung’s good looks took on another level in real life.Fisting his hands to his sides, Jimin bowed deeply. “H-Hi, I’m Park Jimin. Pleased to meet you.” Great, he sounded like a frog with a sore-throat.He kept his head low until the tip of shiny black leather shoes came into view. “Eh, you may rise?” the voice said.Heat rushed to Jimin’s neck and spread up to his face. His eyes met Kim Taehyung and rested on his mesmerising gaze.  “I’m sorry.” Jimin looked away. “I’m.. this is my first time.”“No worries,” Taehyung waved off his concern. He gestured to an area with four armchairs circling a coffee table.  “Have a seat, make yourself comfortable.”Jimin settled in an armchair across from Taehyung. Unlike Jimin, Taehyung portrayed an image of relaxed confidence, as if he had been doing this his whole life. Jimin remembered reading from an article that at only twenty-five, Taehyung had made it to Forbes list of youngest entrepreneurs.Taehyung poured two cups of tea from a silver pot. “Milk for you?”“Ye-yes.”Taehyung poured milk and stirred tea, his fingers moving with such elegance as though he was shooting a commercial for luxury tea ware.“Thank you.” Jimin said when Taehyung slid a cup towards him.“You look different from the photo,” Taehyung lifted his own cup. “My friend photoshopped it,” Jimin muttered, mentally cursing Hoseok’s propensity to overdo things.  “That’s a lot of work.”Jimin shifted in his chair. “Are you Mr. Kim Taehyung?  I- I mean, are you the one looking for a personal social escort?”Taehyung gave a prince charming smile that could work crowds. “Just call me Taehyung. And yes, I’m the one. Tell me about yourself.”At the question, he cleared his throat before he began the lines he’d been practising before the mirror umpteen times. “I’m Park Jimin. I’m twenty-three years old. I graduated from Busan Arts College and I-“Taehyung held up a hand. “Not this. Tell me something that’s not in your profile. Something interesting.”Panic-scrambled thoughts failed to conjure any sensible reply. The problem was, the only thing that was interesting about Jimin was that he wasn’t interesting at all. He loved sketching but he wasn’t sure if it counted as ‘interesting’.“We could start with your reasons for applying for this position.” Taehyung put in helpfully.“I need money, quick money,” Jimin answered. “I have debts to pay.”“School debts?” Taehyung prompted, observing him behind the rim of his cup.“My family,” Jimin picked on his nails as he explained away. “They had this strawberry farm in Busan for years but the landlord has plans to sell it to redevelopers unless we buy the farm from him. I’m raising money to pay the instalments.”Taehyung swirled his cup. He lifted his eyes to Jimin, said, “Your profile says you have no escort experience. How about dating? Have you dated before?”“Ye-yes. Of course, of course.” Jimin’s voice was a notch brighter. He grinned at the thought that something positive finally sprouted out of his short-lived romance with Kai.But he must have looked too happy because Taehyung had set his cup down, knitting his brows. “To clarify, I’m looking for someone who’s single. I’m not into sharing.”“No!” Jimin blurted out, then quickly clarified, “I mean I’m single now. I broke up with my boyfriend two months ago.” Which also costed his job as program editor for the software company he’d been working for, because Kai was the boss’s son.“How comfortable are you with intimate physical contacts?” Taehyung asked.“I’m fine as long as it’s within the scope of the agency’s contract.” Jimin picked at his nails and when he realised that Taehyung was watching, curled them at his sides. “But I can’t do bondage and gangbang. Like BDSM, those tying and air suspension thingy. You know, the type-”“I know what those are.” Taehyung cut him off.“I’m sorry.” “This is not Mr. Grey’s office anyway.”“The movie was so-so. I couldn’t get past one-third of the first book.”A sparkle of amusement danced in Taehyung’s eyes. “Now that’s something interesting about you. I have neither read the book nor watched the movie.”Hotness specked Jimin’s cheeks. Oh no.“I’m looking for an escort to accompany me to functions and events, and spend time with me,” Taehyung said as he relaxed into his chair.Jimin pushed his glasses up. “Shouldn’t a boyfriend do then?”“It’s not that straightforward but no, we won’t do the weird stuff you’ve mentioned. I can only give the details to you once you’re confirmed. And of course, after you accept if offered.”“Okay.”“I’d like to see how comfortable you are. Do you mind a quick trial now?”“Okay.”“Show me how you kiss,” Taehyung spoke in a manner as though he was telling a technician to show him how a pizza-making machine worked.Jimin’s head popped up. “With who?”“Me, of course.” Taehyung got to his feet.Jimin clamped down the panicking claws tearing at his stomach. “Which part?”“Any part,” Taehyung shrugged.Pursing his lips, Jimin shifted to his feet and moved to Taehyung’s side until they were within touching distance. Trying not to be distracted by the crooked smile on Taehyung’s face, he put his hands awkwardly on Taehyung’s shoulders. He could smell the faint scent of vanilla and pinewood. Tipping his toes slightly, Jimin shut his eyes and leaned forward. The slow rise and fall of Taehyung’s shoulders unnerved Jimin as he brushed his lips lightly against Taehyung’s forehead.“That’s rubbing, not kissing.” Taehyung’s voice floated into his ears.Jimin stiffened, pulled away. “I’m sorry. I screwed up.”But Taehyung’s hand closed on his arm. “Do you want me to show you the correct way?” he asked, searching his eyes.“Ye-yes.” Jimin blurted out before he could stop himself. He reeled with intoxication just looking at Taehyung.Taehyung beamed with arrogant satisfaction. “Let me, then.” He slipped Jimin’s glasses off. A soft clinking sounded as his glasses dropped onto the coffee table.Taehyung brought his hand to Jimin’s face, stroke warm fingertips along his jaw. Jimin’s nerves jangled at Taehyung’s touch and goose bumps trickled down his neck. Jimin gulped and closed his eyes.The first brush of Taehyung’s lips was gentle, like the caress of feathers. Jimin’s mouth parted automatically in response, letting the pressure sink through him. Taehyung’s kisses deepened in slow and steady measures, leading Jimin and letting him find pacing. His hands trailed down Jimin’s arms and circled his back to draw their bodies against each other. His touch penetrated tendrils of fire into Jimin’s skin.Jimin’s heart pounded wildly against his ribs like a beast thrashing against its cage. It jammed dead when Taehyung’s tongue slipped into his lips. Jimin’s breath hitched and a soft sound escaped his throat, which only intensified the kissing. Taehyung claimed his mouth with fresh vigour, his tongue gliding over his.All senses in Jimin’s mind and body dissolved like hot lava.A man touching him. A man’s tongue, inside his mouth, exploring, teasing and taking.Yet it wasn’t disgusting and weird as it had been with Kai.It was awesome and it felt… right.When Taehyung finally pulled away, Jimin was breathing hard as if he’d just completed a marathon. Taehyung let out a sharp exhale. The pupils in his eyes had turned a shade darker. “This is kissing,” he said in a raspy voice.Jimin had to remind himself to breathe. “That was… awesome.”Taehyung’s eyes lingered on Jimin as if he was searching for something he’d lost there. It was only then did Jimin realise his own body had gone boneless. He was slumped against Taehyung, still wrapped in his strong arms.Something hard prodded Jimin’s lower abdomen. He drew back and looked down.“You can ignore that,” Taehyung said.“I’m sorry!” He pushed himself away.Jimin had meant to stand on his own but he fell backwards before an equally surprised Taehyung could catch him.What followed next was the sound of clattering ceramics as Jimin’s butt landed on the tea set. He howled in spectacular pain as hot tea spilled.
 
*****Sitting in the toilet, Jimin buried his face in his hands, dying of embarrassment.Stupid, how stupid. He was probably the only rookie social escort who got tea on his pants. Taehyung had offered to help but Jimin had outwardly refused and fled to the private bathroom attached to his office. Luckily, he’d brought a sweater which he could tie it around his waist to hide the tea stain.  When he was done cleaning himself, he stepped out.Taehyung, who seemed to be pacing about came to him in two swift strides. His gaze flicked downwards, making Jimin squirmed. “Is everything alright?”“I’m fine. My pants cushioned the impact. It’s nothing serious,” Jimin mumbled, refusing to meet his eyes. “You should still see a doctor.”“It’s really not a big deal,” Jimin said. He took in the spilled mess and overturned cups on the coffee table.“The cleaner will take care of those. Don’t worry,” said Taehyung. Jimin gathered his bag and his glasses, a frame of which had been dented by the impact of his fall. “I’m very sorry for the inconvenience caused and for wasting your precious time.”“What are your plans after this?” Taehyung asked.“I’ll see if the agency has other leads.”“Is there no way out other than this?  What if other clients make you do things you don’t like?” Taehyung had his hands on his hips. “Like those Fifty Shades stuff you mentioned.”As if he needed to be reminded, Jimin thought. Even with zero experience in escorting, common sense was common enough for Jimin to know that not every client would hit the jackpot in the looks and skills department like Taehyung. He was probably the only one.Jimin shrugged. “I’ve done my own research. The agency I’m signed with has raving reviews from their clients and escorts. Besides, I have pepper spray in my bag.”A look of disbelief crossed Taehyung’s face.  “Are you planning to pepper spray me?”“Of course not. It’s for emergencies.”Taehyung opened his mouth as if he meant to protest but closed it.Jimin said, “You’re a good person. I hope you find someone suitable. Thank you for taking your time to interview me. I wish you the best.” He bowed at Taehyung again before taking his leave. He was just pulling the door open when a hand pushed it back.“I’d like to make you an offer,” Taehyung’s breath was like hot air brushing against Jimin’s neck. He whirled around, almost bumping into him.“But why? I messed it up,” Jimin searched his face. “You don’t have to feel obliged or anything.”Taehyung slipped his hands into his pockets. “I like the feel of you, Jimin. Unless I’m reading it wrongly which I rarely do, I believe that you like the feel of me, too.”Jimin bit his lower lip, heat coating his face.Taehyung continued watching him, like a child who wanted something but knew better than to pester his parents. “I’ll give you sometime to think about it. Give me a call, directly. Say in a week’s time?”“I accept the offer, now.” Jimin put in, thinking of how this would relieve his parents’ debts. If he waited, who knows if Taehyung would change his mind.A smile spread on Taehyung’s face. “Perfect. Very decisive. I like. My secretary, Yoongi will send the contract over and we’ll start next week.”And that was how rookie social escort Park Jimin secured his first client.+++END

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Whack. Bounce. Swing. Whack.Taehyung smacked his racket against the ball.  It hit the wall at the other end, bounced back towards him and he sent it back again. His shoes squelched on the polished parquet as he dived, swung and hit.Sweat soaked his headband and his muscles gleamed with beads of perspiration. His lungs pounding for oxygen made him feel alive. Squash had the ability to sharpen his focus.He sensed someone entering the court, heard the tossing of bag on the bench. His peripheral vision took in the familiar built of Jungkook taking position beside him.“Any updates from Raydar’s team?” Jungkook asked, swinging his racket to hit the ball.“Signing the contract tomorrow.” Taehyung took the next serve.“You’re magic when it comes to work. But as a cousin, you’re the shittiest one in this galaxy. This is the last time I’m doing this for you.”Taehyung chuckled. “That bad huh? I thought you prefer dinner parties with pretty ladies to meetings with anal investors. Or is your boyish charm failing?”“A few of them still like the dark sensual types, kept asking about you. Anyway, haven’t you already found someone?”Taehyung knew what his cousin meant. He had been looking for a pretend boyfriend so that his mother would stop lining up matchmaking sessions for him.  It was a secret only Jungkook and Yoongi knew. He’d intended to hire a social escort from an agency, the no-strings attached type in case things got out of control.But Taehyung’s own control had slipped the moment he’d set eyes on Park Jimin, who’d walked into his office a week ago. There was something innocent and wholesome about that boy, a bundle of geeky nerves and purity; the type that stirred an alpha’s protective instinct.Or predatory instinct.Jimin’s attraction to him had also been obvious. The way his cheeks turned crimson when their eyes locked, how his body melted into his when they kissed – Ah, he tasted of salted caramel and honey.And Jimin had called him ‘a good person’ like he’d meant it. Nobody had ever called Taehyung a good person. ‘Smart’, ‘sharp eyed’, ‘gorgeous’, ‘sexy’, yes. But never ‘a good person’.Logic had warned Taehyung to stay away. For Jimin didn’t look like the type who was capable of playing his games.But damn logic – it had fizzled like vapour when Jimin’d said he would look for other leads. The thought of other men touching him had inflamed Taehyung with a protective rage. Those men, they would eat and skin that boy alive. And so, Taehyung had darted towards the door and dished out the offer before Jimin could leave. That same afternoon, he’d had Yoongi delivered the contract to his house.Taehyung had been thinking of Jimin since then, of the way his bright eyes behind those glasses looked at things with fresh wonder. Jimin reminded him of how Jin had been like in his younger days. How the both of them had used to –His concentration broke and he missed the next ball. It bounced off. Jungkook cheered and punched the air in victory.Taehyung stopped playing. He started towards the row of benches.         “Some sportsmanship,” Jungkook snorted but trailed after his cousin.Taehyung dropped his racket onto the bench, sat and peeled off his headband. When he could no longer stand Jungkook’s enquiring eyes, he said, “I’ve set up the first date with him this afternoon. I’ll also be letting him work in the company.”Jungkook arched a brow. “Does he know what you are up to?”“He doesn’t have to know everything. I’m paying him to do what I want,” Taehyung chugged water from his bottle. “Don’t ask me anymore. If you plan to hire a toy boy, I can pass you the agency’s contact.” “Ha, thanks but no thanks. I’m sticking with single-not-available status.” Jungkook’s expression turned serious as he continued, “Aunt’s been asking about you. Jin and Namjoon, too.”No mention of his father. As expected. “Tell them I’m still alive.”“You coming for Jin’s party next month?” Jungkook took the bottle from Taehyung and drank. “It would look weird if you miss your brother’s big three.” “Of course, why would I miss out the fun?” Taehyung’s mouth twitched.And he would bring Jimin to the party. To his two adoptive brothers – Jin and Namjoon, how bloody well he had moved on.  But as much as Taehyung felt an instant pull of attraction towards Jimin, that horrendous outfit and hair of his had to go. Whoever gave that boy fashion advice ought to be cheerfully murdered. +++“AH CHOO!” Hoseok sneezed. “Bless you.” Jimin sang. Sitting before the dressing table in their cheaply rented two-room apartment, he had his head buried in his sketchbook while Hoseok worked on his hair.Sketching was good. It calmed Jimin. It made him worry less about his first date with Taehyung, which was due in an hour.“I still think you should get a taser,” Hoseok said, tugging at Jimin’s hair with styling tools.“Nah, I don’t know how to use it... Besides, I have a contract signed.”“Just be careful, okay?”At the concern in Hoseok’s voice, Jimin paused his pencil. They had been through this several times, arguing and worrying over the escort job. But Hoseok knew how important it was for Jimin to keep his parents’ strawberry farm in Busan. As children, they would often pick strawberries and play in the fields. The two had moved to Seoul a year ago in search of better lives. So, Hoseok could only support Jimin in other ways, which included helping him find a reliable escort agency and playing fashion guru when he wasn’t teaching dance classes.“I’m still surprised that he decided to hire me,” Jimin said.“Have confidence in yourself, Chimmy. You have a cuteness no one has,” Hoseok smiled, spraying stuff into Jimin’s hair.While waiting for Hoseok to finish, Jimin continued working on his latest Song Joongki sketch.  It was for Hoseok, a die-hard fan of the Hallyu star. Their apartment walls were plastered with posters of Song Joongki, including a giant one smiling at them from their bedroom ceiling.When Hoseok was done, he clapped. “Here you go, P for Perfect!”Jimin looked up from angelic Song Joongki.And froze at the creature staring back at him in the mirror. Horror.Hoseok had styled his hair into a pompadour. A huge mop of it was curled up like a giant bread roll atop his head. Like Elvis Presley gone mental.“Hobi ah, I-”Before Jimin could finish, Hoseok flashed two thumbs up. “I’m sure Mr. Kim will love this. Come, let me get you the outfit.” He danced towards the wardrobe and seconds later, held up a pink shirt with huge rose prints and a pair of lime green pants.Jimin appraised the clothes. “I’m not sure if those works.”“Just try it on!” Hoseok encouraged and pushed the clothes on him. Time was running out. He had to trust Hoseok with his judgement.At exactly two pm, a shiny black Telsa with tinted windows pulled into the driveway where Jimin waited. He could recognise Yoongi as he stepped out from the driver’s side. On the same day after Jimin’s interview, Yoongi had came to his house to deliver the contract to him. The reserved and quiet secretary exchanged small nods with Jimin. He opened the door at the back to reveal Taehyung in the backseat, looking relaxed and glorious.Clad in casual black, the open collar of his shirt revealed his Adam’s apple and collar bone. At the sight of Jimin, his eyes widened for a split second before an amused smile took over. “Hello, Jimin.”“Hello, Mr. Ki- Oh sorry, Taehyung.”From their balcony on the second storey, Hoseok cheered and waved like a proud Mama at her son’s graduation.“Who’s that?” Taehyung looked up. He waved back.Jimin half-covered his face in embarrassment. “He’s Hoseok, my best friend and roommate. Err, he gets excited easily.” He slipped inside the car quickly.As Yoongi pulled onto the main road, Jimin retrieved an envelope from his bag.  “Before I forget, this is the contract. The agency confirmed that they’ve terminated my arrangement with them. I don’t get why you did that.”It still had Jimin wondering, for Taehyung had cancelled his contract with the agency and even paid the damages. Which also meant that the contract in the envelope which Jimin had signed was strictly between the both of them.Taehyung stuffed the envelope into the backseat compartment. “It makes things easier. I don’t have to go through them each time I want to see you.”Oh.“Besides,-” Taehyung shifted toward Jimin, traced a warm finger down his neck.  “-I don’t like sharing my things.”Goosebumps dotted the skin of Jimin’s neck. He swallowed. “Where are we going today?”Taehyung’s mouth curved into another secretive smile. “A place where magic works wonder.” They drove into an upscale area dotted with luxury boutiques and designer shops. At a beauty salon where they walked into, four award-winning stylists greeted them like they were their life benefactors.Standing before those chic stylists, Jimin felt silly in his outfit and hair. Oh, Hobi, look what you have done.He tensed when the stylists reached out for him. Perhaps sensing his nervousness, Taehyung touched the small of Jimin’s back and gave him a gentle push. “Don’t worry, they’ll take good care of you. I’ll be waiting at the lounge.”In quick skilful moves the stylists hovered over Jimin. They shampooed and snipped his hair, padded his face and trimmed his brows. To Jimin’s mild horror, they plugged in tools which looked like torture instruments and slapped chemicals into his hair, pulling and blowing in all directions. When they were done primping him, they shepherded him into the changing room and had him change his clothes.  When he came out, they led him to a wall and whipped the curtain to uncover a wall mirror. And he froze at the creature staring back at him. Wonder.Gone was the disastrous Elvis Presley pompadour.Gone was the cringy nerd he’d known for the past twenty-three years.He was wearing a perfectly fitted navy-blue suit over a white T-shirt, with black pants and loafers to match. He looked perfect for any situation, be it a ballroom wedding or a beach party. But the most amazing transformation was his hair. They’d given him a curtain fringe cut with caramel highlights. Jimin touched his hair, awed by its lustre. It felt like silk running through his fingers.Taehyung stepped beside him, hands stuffed in his pockets.  His eyes lingered on Jimin’s reflection and a satisfied smile hinted on his lips.Jimin believed that if he were to label himself as ‘handsome cutie’, then Taehyung would certainly deserve the title ‘gorgeous heartbreaker’.He turned to Taehyung, milling his words. “I don’t know what to say, but thank you.”“A word of advice-” Taehyung reached out and adjusted the rim of Jimin’s shirt. “- sticking to three main colour schemes works best.”At a fashion boutique where they next went, a personal shopper showered piles of clothes on Jimin. The next hour ended up with him trying on various outfits.From the couch where Taehyung lounged, his eyes appraised Jimin who modeled the clothes before him. When Jimin came out in a shirt that looked like a fish net, he caught a smirk on Taehyung’s face which probably suggested something wicked.They ended up with boxes of clothing and shoes to be delivered to Jimin’s address. Jimin almost fainted when he saw the bill. He was beginning to wonder if all this was overstretching, but Taehyung had slid his credit card across the counter without an eye blink. “What exactly do you mean by pretend boyfriend?” Jimin looked up from his food. They had settled for candlelight dinner in a private room of some French restaurant up in the hills.His tenderloin steak, which had been ordered in advance was delicious. So was the bouillabaisse soup and wine. Steak was Jimin’s favourite food, which he’d indicated so in his profile. A happy warmth bubbled inside him to know that Taehyung remembered. Taehyung leaned back in his chair as he sipped on his wine. “It means doing things boyfriends do when they are in a relationship, but for the purpose of putting on a show.”“Why would you do that?”“So my Mum would stop fixing blind dates for me.”“Does that mean you have no other lovers?” At the subtle change in Taehyung’s expression, Jimin bit his lips. “Sorry, I shouldn’t ask you that.”“I’m not seeing anyone at the moment,” Taehyung said. “You’ll be starting work in my company next week. You will get a salary for that too.”Jimin knew that he would be working in Taehyung’s company – it was part of the contract. But because Taehyung was already paying him for the escort services at thrice the original amount, Jimin had to say something.“You don’t have to pay me anymore for working in your company,” Jimin stared down at his food.“I want to.” was Taehyung’s crisp reply, signalling the end of their discussion on work arrangements. Jimin’s eyes darted to Taehyung’s plate of duck confit, barely half-finished. He was tempted to finish it for him because it looked delicious and he wasn’t feeling full. The problem with places like this was that they served beautiful dishes in painfully small portions. To be honest, Jimin would have been equally happy over a meal at McDonald’s or grilling pork bellies by the sidewalk.Dessert came in the form of strawberry shortcakes, also Jimin’s favourite.“This is for you.” Taehyung slid a box across the table to Jimin. The velvet cover and gold letterings on the box told Jimin another costly gift was making its way to him.Rolex. He almost tumbled out of his chair.“Open it.”  A lopsided grin danced on Taehyung’s face.Holding the box in one hand, Jimin gingerly lifted the lid. And stared at the elegant black dial with oysterflex bracelet.Taehyung shifted to his feet, came to his side. Jimin stood up.“Let me.” Taehyung deftly removed the watch from the box and strapped it onto Jimin’s wrist. He adjusted it, so that the watch face rested on the outside of his wrist. “Perfect.”Jimin shook his head. “I can’t accept it. This is too much.” He was about to unstrap the watch when Taehyung’s fingers closed around his.“Do you not like it?”“No- I mean, yes. It’s beautiful, but you’ve already spent so much today… and a person doesn’t buy a watch like this for anyone.”“I didn’t buy it for anyone, Jimin. I make a lot of money. A watch isn’t going to break me,” Taehyung said it with such charming indifference that it baffled Jimin.How much exactly was Taehyung making? Was it common for clients to splurge on their escorts the way he did? Was a good escort supposed to anticipate his client’s wants and show gratitude for receiving gifts?It was then did Jimin notice that the two servers who’d been standing by the door had disappeared. They were alone. Did this mean Taehyung was expecting him to give something in return?Like a peck on the cheek? French kissing? Or…Jimin reached for the buckle on Taehyung’s leather belt.“What are you doing?”With his clumsy fingers still trying to unfasten Taehyung’s belt, Jimin said. “I’m going to give you a blowjob.”An exasperated sigh. Taehyung put his hand on Jimin’s fingers.Jimin lifted his head, confused. “Did I do something wrong?”“I didn’t give you a watch because I want you to jerk off my cock.” In the dim light, Taehyung’s eyes were unreadable but Jimin could sense something dark lurking beneath them.Pulling his hands away, Jimin stared down at his shoes in mortification. “I…still don’t know how this works.”Taehyung placed a finger under Jimin’s chin, tipped it up so their gazes lock. There were no signs of mockery or contempt as he regarded Jimin.“We take it one step at a time,” Taehyung said.“What should I do first?”Taehyung moved forward, backed Jimin against the wall. His arms rested on either side of Jimin’s head. That sensual smile returned as he spoke in a quiet voice. “How about a strawberry hickey for a start?”He lowered to Jimin’s neck, his mouth capturing his skin and moving slowly upwards. He nipped at the sensitive area just below Jimin’s lobe before trailing kisses down again.“I’m showing you how,” Taehyung murmured, his breath hot against Jimin’s skin. “You have to do mine later.” He moved on to the other side, his teeth scraping lightly against the column of Jimin’s throat. Taehyung’s hand fisted into the back of Jimin’s hair while his other hand caught him around the waist, tugging him close against him.Clutching onto Taehyung’s shoulders, Jimin’s breath hitched at the wildly arousing bites, feeling the hardness of Taehyung’s muscles a thin fabric away from his body. Taehyung’s lips lingered on the flesh above his collarbone, a playful flick of his tongue as his mouth devoured, and sucked.And bit.The pain was gone as quickly as it came, replaced by a gush of pleasure. Jimin’s heart pumped at the sweet pain stripping him of his senses, air gasping out of his mouth. As Taehyung’s biting grew more demanding, Jimin tilted his head back to give him better access.When Taehyung finally pulled away, his eyes focused on Jimin’s neck, and smiled at his work. The spot where he’d left his mark was still tingling with warmth.He pulled off Jimin’s glasses, slipped it into his own pocket. Jimin’s heart leapt into his throat, knowing that it was now his turn.Taehyung put Jimin’s hand to his collarbone. “You can touch,” he said in a raspy voice.At his invitation, Jimin closed in, inhaling a stronger scent of Taehyung’s skin. As Jimin’s mind retraced the steps and feel of Taehyung’s touches, he closed his mouth over Taehyung’s neck and starting kissing, roaming.Encouraged by the murmuring sound that hummed in Taehyung’s throat, Jimin increased the pressure of his kisses, and suck. And bit.Maybe it was the wine, maybe it was the vanilla taste of Taehyung’s skin, or maybe it was the throaty grunt that escaped Taehyung as his arms tightened around Jimin’s waist. But in that moment the exposed part of Taehyung’s skin didn’t seem enough. Jimin wanted more.He pulled away, scraped his fingers along Taehyung’s shirt and started to undo the buttons. He paused midway when the shirt revealed a silver round pendant gleaming against Taehyung’s bare chest. Intrigued, Jimin ran his fingers over the silver pendant.“Don’t touch that.” The sudden command in Taehyung’s voice cut through Jimin’s senses like sharp ice. He withdrew his hand.Whatever that pendant was, it must be something important to Taehyung. And Jimin had unwittingly charted into off-limits territory by touching it. He was only supposed to kiss and bite his neck. Not touch his stuff.Jimin dragged his eyes to the tiny reddish mark he’d left on Taehyung’s neck. His mark on him.A stretch of suffocating silence filled the air.Until Taehyung’s hands cupped Jimin’s face, brushed his cheeks with his thumbs. When Jimin finally had the courage to look at him, Taehyung’s features had softened, as though he too, was trying to come to terms with himself.Taehyung cleared his throat. “That’s enough for today.”He kissed Jimin on the lips.And Jimin’s heart went soft and warm again, like marshmallows melting over campfire.And that was how rookie social escort Park Jimin got his first strawberry hickey. +++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Ok. Relax. Breathe in, out.

He can’t do anything to you here.

Oh no, no, no…  I can’t relax.
Panic opened like floodgates and swept over Jimin as he locked eyes with Kai. His grip on his champagne glass tightened. He watched in horror as his lying, cheating ex-boyfriend strode towards him.Jimin forced himself to remember his purpose here, in this glittering ballroom. He’d just started his first week at V Inc. - Taehyung’s company, and he was here with him for a networking event. But Taehyung had disappeared into the crowd and Jimin hadn’t seen him for the past hour. He ended up standing at a corner with his glass of champagne since nobody was interested in talking to him. Where is Platform 9 ¾ when you need a wall to disappear into?Kai stopped in front of him, disbelief widening his eyes and affecting his speech. “Jee-mean? Is that really yoooo?”“Hi, Kai.” Jimin had meant to sound professional but his voice came out like a pig’s snort.  Kai swept an appraising gaze from his polished shoes to his expensive suit and up his new haircut. “I almost couldn’t recognise you. You look… different.”“I had a makeover.” Jimin pushed his glasses up his nose, a habit whenever he was nervous, or whenever he wanted to look important. In this case it was probably both.“Looking good yeah?” Kai’s smile couldn’t hide the bitterness in his tone.“Th-thank you,” Jimin said. Be civilised.But civilisation couldn’t stop the humiliating memories from resurfacing.Jimin had dated Kai for about two months. It started when Kai, who was also the son of his ex-employer, had asked him out on a movie date. They ended up holding hands and kissing. Jimin hadn’t like Kai the same way as Hoseok was crazy over Song Joongki (when he’d married Song Hyekyo, Hoseok had cried and dug out Joongki’s eyes from a poster, only to regret it the following morning).Okay, back to Kai.  Jimin had liked Kai a little more than his favourite tenderloin steak with mushroom sauce. To him, it’d been good enough reason to give Kai a chance, since he’d been nice to him at work.Then things had started to change when Kai, who’d been getting impatient had wanted to proceed to third base (according to Kai-losophy, holding hands and kissing were insufficient proof of true love). During their last date, they’d checked into a hotel. They’d been kissing in the bed when Kai’s hand snaked into Jimin’s pants. And squeezed. That was when Jimin had freaked out. And when he’d freaked out, he’d punched Kai in the face and fled the room. The following day, he’d found Kai banging his father’s secretary in the janitor’s closet.And that was the sorrowful tale of Park Jimin’s first love. Or perhaps it wasn’t that sorrowful since he hadn’t thought about it much.“Here to see if there are prospective employers?” Kai gulped down champagne.“I’m here as an employee of V Inc.” Jimin pointed at the lanyard hanging before his shirt.

Park Jimin

Game Programmer & Editor
(V Inc.)
 He felt a terrific kick of satisfaction when Kai choked on his champagne.Recovering from his coughs, Kai grimaced, “How did you even get into V Inc.? Am I getting punked?” He whipped his head around like he was searching for a hidden camera.“The boss likes me, so he gave me the position.” Technically, Jimin wasn’t lying. Since he couldn’t reveal his escorting arrangement with Taehyung, it was the best answer he could conjure. Besides Taehyung and himself, the ones who knew about their arrangement were Hoseok, Jungkook, and Yoongi - people they could trust. Although Jimin hadn’t met Jungkook, his conversations with Taehyung had told him enough that the two cousins were like buddies. This said a lot, as Taehyung didn’t seem like the type to regard everyone as his equals.“You are a lucky shit or V Inc. must have been blind to hire you. I’d have thought better of them.” Kai said disdainfully. “Do you know much grief you’ve caused us ever since you left?”“I would have continued working at Hopper if you didn’t bully me after we broke up,” Jimin said.  “Decided to move to our competitor then? To take revenge by helping V Inc. destroy us?”Jimin was confused. V Inc. was nothing like Hopper, Kai’s family business. Hopper was miserably small and tight on resources. It’s handful of employees squeezed in a small office like sardines in a can (which was probably why Kai had to bang the secretary in the janitor’s closet).V Inc., on the other hand, was in a different league. It employed hundreds of employees and had the most advanced state-of-the-art technologies. It owned a building which looked like the Avengers glass tower in those Marvel movies. But instead of the giant ‘A’ sign that gleamed at the top, it had a ‘V’ sign.Since it was pointless to argue with people who had extremely delusional beliefs about their non-existent greatness, Jimin simply told Kai, “I don’t want to talk to you. If you would excuse me.”He was about to step away when Kai caught his wrist and yanked. Jimin let out a startled yelp, earning looks from a few guests nearby.Letting go of Jimin, Kai hissed in a whisper, “Guilty conscious, eh? Really selling our secrets to them?”Jimin sighed. “Kai, a company which is buying over Big Leap doesn’t need your trade secrets.” V Inc was gunning for its major competitor, Big Leap. Jimin had caught a glimpse of the acquisition contract sitting on Taehyung’s desk when he went to his office to deliver some documents yesterday.Running out of accusations, Kai opt for the low blow. “You can change how you look, but you can’t change what you are inside.” His gaze lingered downwards. “Freak of nature.”Jimin blanched and stared down at his shoes. “Please, if you will excuse me.”He was stepping past Kai when his leg tripped. The room turned upside down as the champagne glass slipped from his hand. His glasses flew off his face and he tumbled flat onto the carpet floor. Vaguely, he heard the shattering of glass and people gasping.  Shamed with pain, Jimin pushed himself up on his elbows and glanced back.Kai was standing at the same spot, flashing his teeth. He tapped his slightly outstretched foot, then walked away.Kai had tripped him. On purpose.Gentle arms lifted Jimin to his feet.“Are you okay?” A young guy appraised him with concerned eyes. “I-I’m – my glasses.” Even without his glasses, Jimin could still see near objects but that was his second pair for the month. As if hearing his plea, somebody passed his glasses to him. A few servers scrambled to clean up the mess.Keeping his hands from shaking, Jimin shoved his glasses back to his face. “I’m okay. I just-” He looked down at the stains of red champagne on his shirt, some dripping from his lanyard.“We’ll get you changed.” The guy started to lead him away.“Wait-”When Jimin continued to hesitate, he gave an assuring smile, “Taehyung sent me to check on you. He’s unable to get away right now.”Following the direction of his eyes, Jimin spotted Taehyung across the room. He was standing among a group that had gathered around him, glass in hand, nodding and smiling politely. His face turned taut when he locked eyes with Jimin.  In return, Jimin gave a slight nod.“Okay, I’ll go with you,” he told the guy.In the bathroom of a private lounge area, Jimin changed into fresh clothes. Only Kim Taehyung could produce new clothes with a snap of his fingers.When he came out, the guy who’d helped him waiting outside. He pushed himself away from the wall and approached Jimin with an easy smile.“Thank you,” Jimin said, holding onto the laundry bag containing his dirtied clothes.He took the bag from Jimin. “We’ll take care of these.”His lanyard caught Jimin’s eyes: 
Jeon Jungkook

Legal Counsel
(V Inc.)
 His jaw dropped. “Guess I’m late to introduce myself.” Jungkook’s boyish grin widened as he held out his hand. “Jungkook. Great to finally meet you, Park Jimin.” “Ni-nice to meet you.” He shook Jungkook’s hand.“How has it been working in the company?”“It’s been good so far. Tao, Chen and a few others have been showing me the ropes.” His two colleagues who were seated near his work station had been nothing but good to him. “Have you been working at V Inc. for a long time?” “I joined last year when I returned from the States. Taehyung roped me in as partner, needed someone to take charge of his legal team.”“Are you a lawyer then?”Jungkook shrugged. “I guess you could say that.”Jimin looked at him in wonder. “You must be a genius, getting called to the bar at such a young age. I mean, you don’t look any older than Taehyung. I heard students went out of their minds and go bald in law schools. Is that true? Because you don’t look tortured to me. No, you look really fine and good. You must be a genius to-” He stopped when he caught that amused expression on Jungkook’s face.  Wincing, he muttered, “Sorry.”Jungkook remarked, “I wouldn’t say law school was a torture, maybe I just wasn’t as anxious as the rest. Do you know what’s the difference between a lawyer and a vampire?”“What?”Jungkook whispered conspiratorially behind his hand, “A vampire only sucks blood at night.”Jimin burst into laughter. They exchanged a few more banters until Jungkook ventured, “Was that guy just now a disgruntled ex?” “Doesn’t take much to guess,” Jimin said.  Then he looked away. “Is it okay if I wait at the lobby? I don’t feel like going back in.”“You give that bully satisfaction if you hide from him. He’s going to come back again, thinking that he can always lord over you.”Jimin’s gaze dropped back down to his shoes. “It’s your choice,-” Jungkook clapped a hand on his shoulder. “-but I’d say go back in there, face him like a man. Show him that you will not cower.”When Jimin looked up, he found sincerity in Jungkook’s eyes. He was beginning to think that the world could do with more Jungkooks.He found some courage. “I’ll go back inside.”“Besides,” Jungkook winked, “-I think he has just stepped on a lion’s tail.”+++Taehyung saw red.Not the colour of Jimin’s cheeks when he blushed. But the colour of blood.From where he was stuck with a mingling group, he’d been inconspicuously observing the interaction at the other side of the ballroom. It had been obvious that Jimin was uncomfortable with the bastard who’d approached him. He’d bowed and tried to excuse himself. But instead of taking it like a gentleman, that bastard had wretched Jimin’s hand, probably snarled something nasty at him. And somehow Jimin had ended up on the floor.Like a submissive cowering to a dominant.Taehyung’s hand in his pocket clenched into a fist. Striding across the room, he put his empty glass on a server’s tray, and approached the buffet table where the bastard was now hovering. He introduced himself, noted the idiot’s name and company on his lanyard. When they shook hands, Taehyung’s grip on Kai was knuckle-crushing.“I saw you talking to Jimin,” Taehyung said with a smooth smile. “Are the both of you friends?”“He used to work in my Dad’s company,” Kai snorted in between bites of food.Interesting. “He’s new in my company. I was wondering how he’s like in terms of his work.”Kai’s eyes lit up. “Oh.”“A reference from you might be helpful, since you said he’s worked for your family before,” Taehyung said.Kai waved his free hand as if he were making an important speech. “I wouldn’t keep him if I were you. He left us without proper notice, kinda irresponsible and thinks the world of himself.” A short laugh. “He can’t get a single shit right, nothing but trouble. And he gets needy when people ignore him.”“It sounds bad,” Taehyung contemplated, sliding his hands into his pockets. “I should definitely keep an eye on him.”Kai grunted his agreement. “Yeah, that boy can’t get a shit right.”As Taehyung pulled his hand out of his pocket, his handkerchief slipped out and fluttered to the floor. He bent down to retrieve it.“I’ll make a move first, but before I go.” He crooked his finger at Kai, whose face was bright with anticipation, as though he was privy to some juicy gossip.But Taehyung’s voice rang like cold death as he whispered over Kai’s shoulder, “Next time, pick on someone your size. Keep your filthy hands away from Jimin.”As his warning settled on Kai’s stunned face, he smirked and strode off.“You son of a bitc-” Kai’s cursing was cut off by the deafening crash of the table collapsing.  People gasped and screamed as trays of food and dishes rained down on Kai.Taehyung continued his steps ahead, giving no regard to the spectacular mess of Kai sprawling and cursing on the floor, drenched in food. He spotted Jungkook and Jimin ahead, the latter gaping in shock.When Jungkook gave him a knowing grin, Taehyung shrugged. “Seems like he caught his shoelace on the table leg.”“He’s so not careful,” Jimin muttered, his eyes still on the mess ahead. “Do you think he will be okay?”“Who cares?” Taehyung took Jimin’s hand and they left the venue. “I’ll see you at work on Monday, Jimin.” Jungkook smiled and waved from the steps as Taehyung and Jimin piled into the backseat.“Go away,” Taehyung scowled at Jungkook as the window rolled up.As Yoongi pulled out of the driveway, Jimin said, “I didn’t know that Jungkook is a lawyer.”Taehyung said, “He graduated from Harvard under an accelerated program, at the rip old age of 22 last year. He was the valedictorian of his batch.”“Jungkook’s a Harvard law grad? That’s amazing!”Jimin’s face of reverence irked Taehyung. He arched a brow, “Setting your eyes on my cousin?”Jimin blushed. “No, but he’s friendly and nice.”Taehyung pulled Jimin into his arms, rubbing his cheeks against his. “I can be friendly and nice too, you know.”It made Taehyung want to tease Jimin more when he squirmed and whispered that Yoongi was in front. And then he saw a cracked line on the lens of Jimin’s glasses. “I’ll get you contacts this weekend,” he said as the car made its way to his bungalow. Taehyung had wanted Jimin to move into his place, but Jimin was reluctant to leave Hoseok on his own. Recognising his friendship loyalty, he had made a compromise which was that Jimin would stay over at his place four nights a week, from Fridays to Mondays.Taehyung’s four-storey bungalow was nothing much to be proud of.He tried looking at the space through Jimin’s eyes - a spacious living area with a giant TV screen and glass doors separating the lush gardens outside; a wide kitchen and dining area that opened up to the terrace and swimming pool; a basement which he’d transformed into a playroom; his private study and library; and eight bedrooms with their own bathrooms.But really, Taehyung’s house was nothing much compared to the Kim’s residence he’d spent his childhood in.And yet Jimin had roamed about in wide-eye wonder, like Charlie visiting the chocolate factory for the first time. He bombarded Taehyung with questions as they toured his house. “Do you live alone?” – Yes. “Why do you need such a large space?” – Because I can. “Why is the pool so huge?” – Because I don’t like it small. “Why is your fridge empty?” – Because I don’t cook. “Don’t you get nightmares when you sleep alone here?” – No, I’m nightmare itself.      Leaning against the wall of the playroom, Taehyung watched with quiet amusement as Jimin hovered before the row of glass cabinets, ogling at his collection of action figurines.“You even have these!” Jimin pointed at one of his collections. “They are Marvel’s limited editions - Oh, Thor!”“You like Thor?”Jimin gave a geeky laugh and adjusted his glasses. “I like Spider-Man, but my favourite Marvel actor is Chris Hemsworth.” The Thor guy. Taehyung remembered shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries with the Australian actor at a VIP event last year.“Why?” Taehyung lifted a brow.“He’s handsome and muscular. Friendly and nice on TV too.”Taehyung’s mouth twitched. “You think he’s handsome and muscular.”Jimin grinned at him. “But I think you are more attractive.” And returned back to admiring the figurines.Before Taehyung knew it, he’d crossed over to Jimin and snaked his arm around his petite waist.His finger lifted Jimin’s chin and gazed into those curious eyes. “You have to stop dishing out compliments so obliviously,” he said, and claimed Jimin’s mouth with a deep kiss.He felt Jimin sighed with pleasure against his body, and returned his kisses. Whatever the boy lacked in skills, he made up for them with pure passion. Taehyung had noticed that Jimin was quick and eager to learn, ever the studious learner.Taehyung tackled Jimin onto the soft rug in the center of the playroom.‘Taehyung-” Jimin’s voice came out in a breathy whisper. Taehyung gazed down at Jimin. Eyes dazed in reverie. He smoothed the hair away from his cheeks and felt the boy’s body rose with need under him. He slipped off Jimin’s glasses and brushed his thumb across his lips. With another shuddering sigh, Jimin flicked his tongue out and licked his thumb.Taehyung felt himself hardened and his mouth fastened on Jimin’s again, this time in urgent and demanding moves. Jimin moaned through parted lips, as though he was ready for more.Soft and warm, Jimin tasted of honey butter. But covered by clothes.Growling, Taehyung’s hands moved down Jimin’s body. His fingers hooked and tugged at the boy’s buckle.And the wire snapped.In just a split second, Taehyung felt Jimin’s body go from relaxed to rigid beneath his. The abrupt change was that dramatic that Taehyung had to pull away. Jimin remained lying on his back like a stunned corpse. His eyes had squeezed shut and his fingers were digging into the carpet, knuckles going white. The sight was almost unbearable to watch.Taehyung rolled off him completely. “Jimin?”The boy remained still, like he’d gone into fearful shock.“Jimin.” Taehyung raised his voice.Jimin sat up. His shuddering breath shook his body as he said, “Sor-sorry, let me.” With shaky fingers, he started undoing his pants.“Stop.” Taehyung watched him, quietly assessing. “I’m not going to touch you if you are like this.”Jimin rubbed his eyes. “I-I just never done this before… guess it’s the nerves.”“You’re telling me you are a virgin.”  He got his answer when Jimin averted his eyes with reddened cheeks.“At the interview-”“You only asked if I had dating experience. Not if I had had sex with anyone.”“I also asked how comfortable you are with intimate contact.” Taehyung gritted out.“I-I thought I was comfortable enough.” came Jimin’s timid reply as he drew up his knees. “At least I could manage first base and a bit of second base with Kai although-”“I don’t want to hear you talk about other– wait, that Ken-looking idiot is your ex?”“He was the only boyfriend I had.”Patience. Patience. Taehyung shot up to his feet and paced the room, then stopped and looked at Jimin. He strove for calm but his words still came out crude. “At twenty-three and still a virgin. You literally tensed up on me as if I were forcing you. Why?”When there was no response, he demanded softly, “Tell me, Jimin. Do you have a phobia? Did someone hurt you? I need to know so I can establish our baseline.”It took Jimin a while to compose himself. Drawing his knees closer to his chest, he took a deep breath. “When I was in middle school, there was this big boy who would go about picking on the little ones. I was his target that day.” He fisted his hands on his knees, as though he were suppressing an awful memory. “He… forced me to sit on the toilet floor and-and he pressed his shoe on my front until I was crying… It-it was painful and disgusting and since then I- I only knew it was a problem when Kai-” His words dried up.“Did you report it to anyone?”A shake of the head. “I was on my own that day, Hobi was sick at home. Anyway, that boy transferred the following term and I never saw him again.”“Have you pleasured yourself before?”Jimin’s head snapped up, and Taehyung mentally cursed himself when he saw that hurt in his eyes.Jimin stared away in shame. “No… I can’t find pleasure in those stuff, not after what happened.”Taehyung pinched the bridge between his eyes before his veins could explode. The thought of some asshole hurting and terrifying Jimin sparked vengeful fiery through his body. He saw blood again.And this boy - this stupid, innocent boy sitting in front of him was naive enough to believe that he could be a fucking social escort. God help him.Taehyung’s train of thoughts broke when Jimin mumbled, “But I suppose I might like it with you, the things we have been doing so far.” “Like?”“Kissing, perhaps. I used to think that it was just lips and tongues.” He risked a glance at Taehyung. “But whenever you kiss me, I could feel my problems disappear, like your lips have some kind of magical healing properties. I kind of like that, just that my body is the problem.”It was flattering even as it was heartbreaking. An odd feeling bubbled in Taehyung’s chest, numbing away the anger. He stepped towards Jimin and crouched down before him. He took his white-knuckled fists and uncurled his fingers.“I’ll take that as a compliment,” Taehyung said as he thumbed soothing circles on Jimin’s palms. “Remember, Jimin. You are not the problem. It’s those fucking-bastards-piece-of-shit assholes-” he softened his language when Jimin flinched. “- What I’m saying is that there’s nothing wrong with you. Don’t ever think you are the problem, alright?”Jimin’s eyes were heartbreakingly hopeful as he looked at Taehyung. “Then what should I do now? Do you still want me to remove my pants?”Despite himself, Taehyung chuckled. He gently tapped Jimin on his forehead twice. “Yes, you are going to remove your pants, but that’s because you are going to take a bath. Alone. You are going to relax while I see where we can go for dinner.”And so that was how rookie social escort, Park Jimin revealed his dark secret for the first time.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Jimin opened his eyes.And freaked out when he didn’t see the familiar face of Song Joongki smiling down from the ceiling.
Oh no, no, no.
Sitting up, Jimin took in the expanse of the elegantly furnished bedroom and the soft thick covers of the king-sized bed he was tucked in.And then he recalled that he wasn’t in his shared apartment with Hoseok. He was in Kim Taehyung’s house, where he’d arrived yesterday for his first stayover. Taehyung had put him in the guestroom next to his bedroom.“Cool down, Jimin,” he muttered to himself and rubbed his eyes.Beyond the curtain gap, it was still dark with faint hints of dawn breaking. He slipped out of the covers and padded to the bathroom, ready to start the day.The sky was a symphony of pink and purple when Jimin stepped out. He closed the front door quietly and tiptoed to the gates where a bicycle was parked.Cool moist air brushed against Jimin’s face as he cycled down the upscale neighbourhood. The grand landed houses and lush greenery reminded Jimin of how vastly different his and Taehyung’s lives were.Taehyung lived like a lavish prince, with an expensive taste for things and an obscene spending on fine dining. The country club he’d brought Jimin to for dinner last night was yet another proof of his extravagant lifestyle. The amount of money which Taehyung spent on one meal could probably last Jimin and Hoseok for a month. As much as the steak and strawberry shortcake were delicious, Jimin was beginning to feel the strain of luxury overmuch. He paddled on to the main road and stopped in front of a twenty-four minimart which he’d spotted during the drive back to Taehyung’s bungalow last night.   Jimin returned with a bag of groceries and set about working in the kitchen. He set the skillet on the electric stove, and whipped butter with eggs.Part of Jimin wanted to show Taehyung that it was not the food that mattered, but the company you treasured. He also wanted to express his gratitude, especially since Taehyung hadn’t pushed on after he’d tensed up on him in the playroom last afternoon. Dense as he was, Jimin wasn’t so stupid that he hadn’t pick on the undercurrents that Taehyung was restraining himself. He felt he’d failed his duties as a social escort.While the scrambled eggs cooked, he made toast, fried bacons and sausages.Within minutes, Jimin-styled breakfast was done. He put finishing touches onto the plates and set the table, added two cups of coffee and a jar of milk. “You are an early bird,” Taehyung said.Jimin’s head whipped up and saw Taehyung leaning sideways against the refrigerator, his arms folded across his chest. He was watching Jimin, a coy smile on his face.Even in casual long-sleeve T-shirt and lounge pants, Taehyung looked fresh like daisy, as if sleep never dishevelled his features. If this was Taehyung’s morning just-out-of-bed look, then Jimin didn’t want to live anymore.  God was blatantly biased when He created Kim Taehyung. Someone should file a complaint with the Ministry of Heaven.Instead, Jimin found himself smiling awkwardly. “Good morning, I prepared breakfast.”A small frown crossed Taehyung’s face as he took in the spread of food, but his features were quickly schooled into neutral expression. “We can order in or go out next time. It saves you the trouble of preparing and cleaning up.”Jimin shifted on his feet. “I wanted to thank you, for all you have done for me.”Taehyung touched Jimin’s forehead with the tip of his finger. “That’s sweet of you.  Let’s start then.”Sitting across from each other, Jimin watched Taehyung cut and took a small bite of his sausage, paused and drank water.“Is the food not to your liking?”Taehyung gave a smile that only touched his lips. “I usually have a protein shake and salad in the morning. I don’t do heavy meals.”“Oh.”“But it’s been a long time since someone has cooked for me,” he added, slicing into his toast. “It’s a special change.”They continued eating in silence, until Taehyung said, “We’re going to Jeju, two weekends from now.”“Is it for a special occasion?”“It’s Jin – one of my elder brothers’ birthday. He’s turning thirty and hosting a party at our family resort there. We will be staying there for the weekend.”Crazy rich people celebrating birthdays in their family resort.  If Taehyung’s brother was doing a resort party for his thirtieth birthday, Jimin wondered if the Kims would book a spaceship to Mars when their father turned eighty.Taehyung refilled his water. “There will be a closed-door family dinner before the party. I’ll be introducing you as my boyfriend to them. Here’s when your pretend boyfriend role comes into play.”So far, Taehyung had never talked about his family (unless you counted Jungkook, his cousin). From his interactions with Taehyung, Jimin had an inkling that family was a dark topic he should not pry into unless Taehyung made the first move.“Is there anything I should know about your family?” Jimin ventured carefully. “It would be good to know what they are like, so I know what to say if they ask me things.”“Of course, Yoongi will send you their profiles.” The impersonal tone of Taehyung made ‘family’ sound like a foreign object. Whenever Jimin talked about his own parents and shared stories about their strawberry farm, he would smile and laugh. But in the case of Taehyung, the topic of family seemed to have tensed the atmosphere.When Jimin had finished his food, Taehyung’s plate was still half-full. He had eaten the eggs and toast, but the bacons and sausages were almost untouched, so was the cup of coffee which had long turned cold.Although Taehyung had tried to be discreet, Jimin had noticed that for every small bite he took, he would wash it down with gulps of water.Jimin set his cutlery down. “It’s alright, you don’t have to finish it. I’m sorry… I shouldn’t have assumed that you would eat bacons and drink coffee.”Taehyung pushed his chair away from the table and came over to Jimin’s side. Cupping the back of Jimin’s neck with his hand, he bent forward and brushed a kiss on his forehead. It was a brief and tender kiss, but enough to send Jimin’s heart racing.  When Taehyung pulled away, those dark eyes reflected the alpha’s desires beyond mere kisses - that if Jimin hadn’t tensed up on him yesterday, he would have dragged him to bed and ravage him like a hunter claiming his prize.“I should’ve let you know this earlier,” Taehyung said. His morning voice had a soothing quality that calmed Jimin’s nerves. “I’m allergic to coffee and keep carbohydrates to a minimum in my diet. I thrive on protein and vegetables.”Jimin replied meekly. “I’ll take note of these the next time I prepare breakfast for you.”The alpha’s lips curved into a smile. “You don’t have to do it all the time, once in a while is good.”“Okay.”“We’re going out to get you contacts,” Taehyung said.“But my glasses-”“You are not going to wear them anymore. It gets in the way when we kiss.”Jimin simply nodded.“We set off in half an hour.” When they returned in the afternoon, Taehyung told Jimin that he had some work to attend to. “You can do what you want,” he said before heading to his study.Jimin spent the next couple of hours prancing around the house. Most of his afternoon time ended up in the basement playroom where he played X-Box and VR google games. He also chatted with Hoseok over FaceTime. His concerned friend had asked Jimin to report any unusual sightings of torture equipment in Taehyung’s house.But as far as Jimin was aware, the playroom was indeed a playroom and not some room with whips and chains. He also hadn’t come across any room in the house that resembled a torture chamber. The only peculiar discovery was that the Thor figurines he’d seen yesterday had miraculously disappeared from the glass display.Tired from games, Jimin was lazing on the couch with a comic when Taehyung came in.“I’m taking a Jacuzzi. Would you like to join me?” He asked.An invitation.Jimin’s heartbeat fastened as he sat up. “Okay.” The sun was setting when Jimin stepped outside to the pool area.Taehyung stood at the Jacuzzi tub beside the pool, wearing nothing but his boxers. At the sight of his sculpted abs and smooth lean muscles, a crosscurrent of emotions kicked at Jimin’s stomach.Despite his nerves, Jimin pushed on and followed suit. He stripped off his own clothes until he was in only his boxers. He shivered at the cool air that kissed his bare skin.Taehyung held out his hand, an inviting smile in his eyes. With no words exchanged, Jimin linked his fingers with Taehyung’s, and they stepped into the huge tub together.Jets of warm bubbles rose and massaged Jimin as he settled down in the tub, with Taehyung across from him. They sat in silence, the only sounds being the humming of the Jacuzzi motor and rolling bubbles.Until Taehyung asked, “Do you want to come over?” Another invitation.Jimin’s hesitation was short before he nodded. He waded over to Taehyung, but was caught off guard when Taehyung pulled him to sit in the space between his legs. He circled his arms around Jimin’s waist, drawing his back to his chest.Sitting this close, it was impossible not to feel the warmth that radiated from Taehyung’s body. It was a distinct kind of body heat that was different from the Jacuzzi bubbles.They remained in the cuddling position for a while, until Taehyung ran his wet and warm hands down Jimin’s neck and cupped his shoulders. Jimin jumped when Taehyung squeezed his shoulders.“Relax,” Taehyung coaxed, his voice soft with a hypnotic quality. “Close your eyes and breathe.”Jimin followed as he’d been told. He closed his eyes, drew one slow breath after another.He felt the tension loosen as Taehyung’s hands began kneading his shoulders in soothing motions.Breathe in, out... In… out. Taehyung’s calming voice whispered as his hands massaged.With his eyes closed, Jimin’s body slipped into relaxation.“Isn’t it easy to relax?” Taehyung asked quietly.“Hmm.”With his nerves fully soothed by Taehyung’s massage, Jimin fluttered his eyes open. He noticed that the water had stilled with the jets turned off.“I’m moving to the next one,” Taehyung murmured as his fingers went still on Jimin’s shoulders. His hand reached out for a hose dangling at the edge of the tub.“What’s that?” Jimin asked.“You will find out soon.”With a quick hand, Taehyung secured one end of the hose into the jet hole next to them. He pulled the other end of the hose under their legs and slipped its tip into the leg hole of Jimin’s boxers.Taehyung reached for the jet switch, turned it up to blast.Warm bubbles erupted from the hose and dove straight between Jimin’s legs.Jimin startled as his legs buckled at the impact of the invading bubbles. He almost slipped downwards, but Taehyung steadied him with an arm around his waist, drawing his back tighter against his chest.“Relax, just feel it.” Taehyung cooed as he guided Jimin’s hand onto the hose below. “You need to hold it down, shift about to find your most sensitive spot.”“But I-” Jimin gasped, panic almost clawing back.“Trust me.”It was all he needed to hear from Taehyung.Bracing himself, Jimin followed Taehyung’s instructions, navigated the hose between his legs with the alpha’s help. He yelped when Taehyung geared the jet to its fullest blast, causing the bubbles to charge out like unstoppable pellets at his sensitive spot.Jimin’s breath hitched, but the tension this time was different. It wasn’t fear.It was arousal.Taehyung ran wet and warm kisses down Jimin’s nape, mouthing words of ‘relax’, ‘feel it and let it come’ into his ear.With fear giving way to sheer pleasure, Jimin felt an intensity stirring in his loins and threatening to burst out. He held onto the hose and threw his head back into Taehyung’s shoulders. With one arm securing Jimin’s waist, Taehyung continued to roam his freehand against Jimin’s skin. His fingers rolled Jimin’s nipple teasingly. And pinched.The erotic wave in Jimin’s body erupted in full force and warm silky liquid shoot out from his cock. He thrusted wildly in Taehyung arms and cried out for the alpha.Taehyung covered Jimin’s mouth with his, muffling his moans. His kisses were hot and moist, tasting of wet vanilla.Jimin’s breath laboured, reeling from pleasure so intense beyond his comprehension.Taehyung turned off the jets and removed the hose.“Congratulations,” he said, pressing a gentle kiss to the ragged beat of pulse in Jimin’s neck. “You just have your first orgasm.”As Jimin tried to regulate his breathing and recover from his pounding heart, Taehyung’s hands massaged his shoulders, giving him time to rest.When Jimin’s breathing gradually steadied, Taehyung began again. His fingers toyed with the waistband of Jimin’s boxers, slipped under the fabric and palmed his lower abdomen. Jimin’s muscles contracted.“Do you want me to continue?” Taehyung murmured in a voice so wonderfully disturbing that had Jimin curling his toes.“Yes- please,” he was almost begging.In one fluid motion, Taehyung yanked down Jimin’s boxers. Jimin manoeuvred and kicked off his boxers and watched it float up and away in the water. His breath caught when Taehyung’s fingers closed around his manhood. “Tell me if you want me to stop,” Taehyung said.“No- don’t-stop.” Jimin braced on. His hands tightly gripped onto Taehyung’s arms around his waist“As you wish.” Taehyung began fondling Jimin’s cock in playful caresses, before firming his grip and stroking it in up-down motions. At one point, Taehyung closed his thumb on the tip of Jimin’s member, and pressed. Jimin gasped and thrust his head back against Taehyung’s shoulder. Taehyung chuckled darkly. With his body trapped in his arms, Jimin couldn’t turn to see the alpha’s face. The teasing was beginning to frustrate him.“Taehyung…” Jimin whined.Taehyung resumed stroking up and down Jimin’s length. Jimin felt his very existence narrowed down to the feel of Taehyung’s hand around his cock. The water before him rippled as Taehyung worked his hand below, stroking and pulling with growing intensity.The second wave of orgasm approached, this time with arousing swiftness.At Taehyung’s final tug, Jimin exploded into his second orgasm. He cried out Taehyung’s name at the same time Taehyung growled his.Jimin’s mind rattled with stars and tremor shook through his body. He lay limp against Taehyung, his lungs gasping for air.With his back resting against Taehyung’s chest, Jimin could feel the alpha’s hard erection prodding at his sacrum. But he was too spent to ask if the alpha needed his own release. When the sky had darkened to a nightfall of stars, Taehyung was still cuddling Jimin in the tub.“Was it disgusting?” Taehyung brushed his lips against Jimin’s temple.“No,” breathed Jimin, spent and exhausted.“Did you enjoy it?”“Y-Yes...”“Look at how my Jimin has dirtied my tub.” Taehyung murmured teasingly.Jimin’s half-open eyes drifted to the wisps of silvery-white spiralling in the water, the release of his ecstasy.“Should I do yours now?” Jimin asked softly, his mind and body drifting off.A deep-throated chuckle. “Next time. I want my Jimin to be in full throttle when he does mine.”And so that was how rookie social escort, Park Jimin entered third base. With alpha millionaire Kim Taehyung, who also gave him his first orgasm.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

“Ah choo!” Jimin blew his nose hard into a tissue paper.“Woah, your cold seems to be getting from bad to worse,” Chen said, popping a fry into his mouth.  “It’s been like what? Four, five days already?” Tao asked, fiddling with the drinking straw in his Coke.Through watery eyes, Jimin looked at his two colleagues sitting across from him at the lunch table. Crumpling up the tissue, he sniffed, “I’m a lot better now after taking the meds.”“At least the weekend is here for you to recover,” Chen said with a concerned smile.Hot flush glazed Jimin’s face as his mind wandered back to the previous weekend at Taehyung’s place. He remembered, with toes-cringing embarrassment, at how he’d dozed off right after receiving a spectacular hand job from Taehyung. The alpha had worked his splendid magic on Jimin, firing his inhibitions and arousing his body to previously unknown heights.But the embarrassment wasn’t just dozing off after his orgasm – Jimin had dozed off right in Taehyung arms, in the stupid tub. Consciousness had only found him the next morning, when he’d awoken to layers of blankets wrapped around his naked body like a cocoon. It hadn’t helped that Taehyung’d sauntered into the room with a see-what-I-could-do-to-you grin. They’d enjoyed breakfast in bed, where Jimin had mouth-fed cherry tomatoes to Taehyung.Such was a summary of Jimin’s first stayover at Taehyung’s place. By Sunday, he’d found himself down with a flu, likely from staying in the jacuzzi for too long (although Taehyung was perfectly fine).Vibration from his phone brought Jimin back from his thoughts. A text from Taehyung.

Taehyung

: Attending a meeting outside this afternoon. Will meet you at the threatre entrance later. 7pm.
 Jimin smiled. It was Friday again. He hadn’t really spoken to Taehyung since Tuesday afternoon – when the both of them had lunch in his office followed by French kissing before Taehyung was called for a meeting. Since then, more meetings had occupied Taehyung’s schedule in a bid to close the deal on V Inc’s acquisition of Big Leap, its biggest competitor in South Korea.The prospect of a musical date with Taehyung this evening made Jimin giddy with joy. Despite Taehyung’s domineering attitude at times, Jimin found that he actually enjoyed the alpha’s company.“So, are you joining us or not?” Tao was asking him.“Sorry?”Tao rolled his eyes in mock exasperation. “The movie tonight, remember? MIB? Chen and I, plus Heechul are going. Are you coming with us?”“I think you should go home and rest early.” Chen said.“Oh-” Jimin broke into a grin. “I already have plans this evening. I’ll join you guys next time?”Tao made a disappointed face at Jimin, whereas Chen showed more understanding. It wasn’t the first time Jimin had turned down their offer to hang out together after work. The first time it had happened, Tao and Chen had wanted to give Jimin a welcome treat at the pub, but he had to back out at the last minute when Taehyung had booked a dinner for two at a Gordan Ramsey restaurant.Awkward, Jimin was about to adjust his glasses with his hand when he remembered that he was now wearing contacts.“You look better without glasses,” Chen smiled at him.“Ah, thanks,” Jimin tried not to cringe at being complimented. “I promise, I’ll join you guys for the next outing.”“You better,” Tao wriggled a playful finger at him while Chen laughed.They returned to the office with the jubilance of TGIF. But their banter of jokes halted when they saw Chanyeol pacing up and down the walkway.“What’s wrong?” Tao asked.Chanyeol, the PR manager crossed towards them. “Some companies got wind of our acquisition of Big Leap and bought some advance shares in our company. The media’s been bombarding us for the past hour since the news leak. We need everyone – you guys included to stop whatever you’re doing at the moment to handle the calls.”
Kai, a company which is buying over Big Leap doesn’t need your trade secrets.
The words which Jimin had told Kai clang in his head like a reverberating cymbal.Other co-workers who had returned from their lunch were already rooted at their stations, typing furiously or engaging in heated telephone calls.Chanyeol was about to stalk off when Jimin grabbed his arm. “Wait, Chanyeol. Does the companies which bought the advance shares include Hopper?”“Yes, they are one of the major buyers,” Chen gave him a puzzled look. “In fact, Taehyung was just-”Jimin ran off without waiting for him to finish.Oh dear- oh dear- no-no-no. Hopper was the company owned by Kai’s father. If they’d gotten wind of V Inc’s acquisition of Big Leap, it must be Jimin who…His blood ran hot and cold at once. He burst into Taehyung office. Standing by the window, Taehyung and Jungkook whipped their heads up from what appeared to be an intense conversation.Despite Taehyung’s grave demeanour, there was a glint of surprise in his eyes when he saw Jimin. He crossed swiftly towards him. “Jimin, is there a problem?”Struggling to control his hammering heartbeat, Jimin stuttered, “I-I heard from Chanyeol about Big Leap.”“That’s not something you have to be worried about.”“No-” Jimin shook his head. “- It’s… I’m sorry – I didn’t mean to- I didn’t know the acquisition was still under wraps.”“What do you mean?” The sharpness in Taehyung’s voice unnerved Jimin further.He struggled not to panic. “I told Kai about the acquisition when I met him at the seminar that day.” When the faintest trace of good mood in Taehyung’s eyes vanished, he anxiously added, “But I swear, I didn’t do it on purpose. He was taunting the company for hiring me and I just wanted him to stop…  I wasn’t aware it was confidential. I…” Words failed him.“How did you even know about it? Tell me.”“I saw the contract on your table when I came in to deliver some documents last week. But I didn’t look at the contents… I really don’t know the public isn’t supposed to know.”“You don’t know anything,” Taehyung repeated with an icy look.“I-” Jimin turned to Jungkook helplessly.For the first time, he saw the young lawyer with a grim expression on his face as he said, “Jimin, acquisitions boost the buying company’s value. Until the contract is signed, we keep things confidential to prevent third parties from profiting by buying shares in advance. We can get called up for investigations on charges of manipulating the stock market.”It was as if someone had kicked Jimin in the stomach and locked his breath away.“Taehyung, Jungkook,” interrupted Yoongi who had appeared at the doorway. “Big Leap’s BOD wants to meet us.”“Get the car ready. We set off now.” Taehyung told Yoongi, who nodded and left.Taehyung was striding out of the room when Jimin asked, “Is there anything I could do to help?”Taehyung paused at the door. Without so much of a backward glance, he said, “You can, by staying out of the way.” - and swept out.Jungkook gave Jimin a sympathetic look, patting his shoulder. Saying nothing, he made his way out.Left alone, the gravity of the situation descended on Jimin. His mind started on a terrifying road that he’d just unleashed a disaster on V Inc. He rubbed his knuckles against his eyes to stop the tears.Even if Taehyung had told him to stay away, he had to do something to help. Swallowing the unpleasantness of it all, he left the room.Chaos reigned in the office for the rest of the day. Phones continued ringing, photocopies buzzed, papers strewn over desk surfaces and footsteps stomped about. People talked in raised voices over each other to different people and phones at the same time.As a two-week old newbie, there was very little, if not nothing which Jimin could help with. He watched the entire drama unfold with a sense of hopelessness.He was the trigger of this disaster but not part of the solution, a hindrance more than an assistance.At one point, someone hissed at him because he was blocking the walkway. Jimin excused himself, only to bump right into Heechul who was running from the other direction.In another instance, Jimin offered to help Tao make photocopies of some documents but messed up the order, much to Tao’s irritation.“I’m sorry, Jimin. I didn’t mean to snap at you.” Tao apologised in a hurry before dashing upstairs to the publicity team.Even the ever-patient Chen was at his wits end fire-fighting calls from the media and trying to help Chanyeol edit the statement for press release.“Don’t worry, Jimin. It’ll all be sorted out.” Chen assured Jimin, who was close to tears.Jimin wondered how the people of V Inc would react if they knew he was the cause of this fiasco.He ended up doing the only thing he was able to do well. He made multiple trips to the café downstairs and returned with bags of takeaway sandwiches and coffee.+++Kim Taehyung knew his odds and the cards he played. Whether it was in life or in business, one didn’t always win. It was okay to take a step back once in a while. To get the biggest fish, one needed to bid his time.The news leak didn’t ruffle him as much as the insider who revealed the information. It was one thing to face a business challenge, and quite another to face betrayal - especially if came from someone you thought you could trust. To Taehyung, it was easier to end an enemy than to forgive a friend.Leaning back in his seat, Taehyung remained cool as he allowed the other side to consider his counter-offer. Negotiations with Big Leap’s board of directors had veered into a deadlock. After four hours, Taehyung had given his ultimatum.“Correct me if I’m wrong, Mr. Kim,” said Mr. Young, the founder of Big Leap. “You are raising the buy-over price to a hundred and twenty percent. That’s thrice the market value… which sounds too good to be true.”Unperturbed by the cynical stares of other shareholders at the large table, Taehyung aimed a long, levelled look at the pudgy businessman in his late fifties. “The money on our side will slip fast this time but we’ll make it back. An esteemed business person like Mr. Young should know there is more at stake.”Next to Taehyung, Yoongi continued typing quietly on his laptop.At the other side of Taehyung, Jungkook was already working his mind, slipping into their unspoken dynamic– that if Taehyung was the villain, he would be Mr. Nice.“Consider the implications,” Jungkook smiled amicably at Mr. Young, “Your side has more to lose if we pull out. Big Leap needs our resources to scale up. Our extended offer is an exception, a token of our sincerity in preserving this relationship.”It didn’t take long for Mr. Young to connect the dots, of his precarious position in this deal. “That’s a deal then, we will take it.”They signed the contract, shook hands. Another disaster avoided.“Winning hearts and minds, the both of you.” Mr. Young nodded with grim satisfaction at Taehyung and Jungkook. He turned to Taehyung, “Your father must be proud of your capabilities.”Taehyung’s cool front faltered for a split second before he smoothed his features. He said, “I hope he shares the same sentiments.” They entered the basement parking lot of Big Leap’s building. As it was close to midnight, the place was quiet, almost emptied of cars. When they reached his car, Taehyung stopped.He glanced at Jungkook and Yoongi. “What are your thoughts?”Jungkook shrugged. “I’d say we handled it to satisfaction, although that man was baiting us, using the leak as an advantage to demand better terms.”“An old fox,” Taehyung twitched his mouth.“I think the both of you concluded the deal well,” Yoongi added matter-of-factly, “-especially since the news leak happened only a few hours ago.”A crease appeared between Jungkook’s brows as he eyed Taehyung. “Jimin made a mistake, a silly one, but I don’t reckon he did it on purpose. You were being too harsh on him just now.”“I’ll talk to him later,” Taehyung said. The boy was a different worry he would have to deal with. His analytical mind also told him the betrayal wasn’t that simple. He pointed out, “At best, what Jimin told Kai only confirmed their suspicions, but it shouldn’t have prompted them into action unless they already got wind of the acquisition.”Jungkook considered Taehyung’s words. “You suspect there’s a mole in our company.”“We’ve to tread carefully from now on. We keep this among the three of us for now. Yoongi, plant a few bugs in the office and get the IT to audit our security.”“Noted, I’ll see to that,” Yoongi said. Darkness greeted Taehyung when he returned to his house. The absence of Jimin’s shoes told him that he wasn’t here. Taehyung had given Jimin fingerprint access to his house. He had assumed that Jimin would come here after work since it was Friday.But Taehyung wouldn’t have blamed Jimin if he’d chose not to come. After all, he had literally walked out of the boy this afternoon. But Jimin should at least have the decency to tell him that he wasn’t coming. Now, Taehyung was irritated with Jimin as much as he was worried about him.He glanced at his watch, swore softly. But called Jimin’s house anyway. Just in case.After a few rings, a sleep and groggy Hoseok answered.Taehyung cut to the chase. “It’s Taehyung. Get Jimin on the line.”Hoseok muttered in a groggy voice, “Chimmy’s not home. Isn’t he supposed to stay at your place?”Taehyung ended the call, pressed Jimin’s line. It went to voicemail.He swiped the screen for messages. And halted at his last text to Jimin.… Wait for me at the entrance.Realisation booted him like a physical blow.
Don’t tell me – no how can a person be that silly.
But it was gullible Jimin in this case.Taehyung dashed out of the front door and started his car.   Before the theatre building, a lone figure sat on the steps with his head buried in his knees.Taehyung looked down at Jimin and shook his head in exasperation. “Get up.”Jimin lifted his head, rubbed his eyes. He stifled a yawn. “You are here.”When Jimin tried to stand but stumbled, Taehyung caught him in his arms. Jimin pushed away from him hastily, his withdrawal so swift that it caught Taehyung by surprise.Jimin straightened his composure, averting his eyes. “In case you think I was playing the pity card by tripping, I wasn’t.”Despite Taehyung’s worries, his words came out unforgiving, “Then why are you sitting here in the middle of the night? Why didn’t you answer my calls? What the hell do you think you are doing, disappearing like that?”There was a slight quiver in Jimin’s voice and Taehyung could tell that he was trying to put on a brave front. “You told me to wait here for you, I did. I couldn’t contact you because my phone is dead. You asked me to stay away, and I didn’t know where else to go and if you would still come here.”“Let’s go.”Taehyung turned and about to walk away when Jimin asked, “We lost a lot of money, didn’t we?”Taehyung’s chest caved at the pained look on Jimin’s face. It had been a hellish day for everyone.He said to Jimin, “You can’t measure everything by money.”“I can pay you back in instalments. You can deduct from my pay.”“Unless you plan to sign a slave contract with me for the next twenty years, I don’t see how you can ever pay 5 million by instalments.”Jimin’s voice dropped lower to a bare whisper. “That’s a lot of money I’ve burnt away.”Taehyung felt anger and pity towards Jimin. Anger was directed at the boy’s naïve understanding of how the world worked, and pity that he had to bear the brunt of the world.“It’s been settled, okay? If you really want to help, then just come home with me. Now.”They piled into the car and Taehyung started the engine.He kept his eyes on the road as he asked. “Have you eaten?”“I had a sandwich,” Jimin muttered, staring down at his hands on his lap. “Did you eat?”“Yes.”Another pregnant silence followed as Taehyung drove on for a while.It was finally broken when he said, “I heard you bought dinner for them. That’s kind of you.”Jimin forced out a short laugh. “It was the only thing I could do.”“You did well, taking care of my people’s stomachs.”“I was the one messed it up. I know its useless and pathetic to say I’m sorry, but I truly didn’t mean to-”“I believe you,” Taehyung cut him off with a resolute glance before returning to the road. “You didn’t do it on purpose or else you wouldn’t have burst through that door looking so upset. I believe you.”At the suppressed sob that Jimin was trying to contain, Taehyung knew those were the words the boy needed to hear from him.They continued the remainder of their journey home in silence. When Taehyung came out of the shower and returned to his study, a mug was sitting on his desk. A scribbled note beside it read: I’m still sorry. I promise I will do better next time. - JMA warm smile found its way to Taehyung’s lips. He lifted the lid and swirls of steam rose in the air. Sitting down, he drew the mug up to his face and inhaled the scent of honey. With a satisfied sigh, he blew and slowly sipped the hot drink.Moments later, Taehyung padded down the hallway to the guestroom. Jimin was curled up in bed, asleep. The two flu pills which Taehyung had left earlier at the bedside was gone, and the glass of water stood half-empty.Taehyung sat at the edge of the bed. He watched Jimin sleep, enjoying the innocent look on his face and the comforting sound of his soft breathing.“I can’t sleep if you are watching me,” mumbled Jimin, his eyes half-opened.“I thought you were already asleep.”“I was, until I sensed your presence.”A light feeling effervesced in Taehyung’s chest. He came closer and lowered his lips to Jimin, giving him a long, slow kiss. He wasn’t pushing for more, just trying to show Jimin that all was well, and that he wasn’t angry at him. Not at all.When he eased back, Jimin had drifted off again. Taehyung smiled, stroking Jimin’s hair. The boy rubbed his cheek against the pillow, making small sounds of contentment.

“Sweet dreams.” Taehyung touched his lips to Jimin’s forehead. He tucked the covers around him and turned off the lamp. Shutting the door quietly behind him, he made his way towards the study to continue his work.+++END

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Life is not fair.

You only need to know why by first looking at a Siberian Husky.

Then you look at a Pug.

And there you got it - God’s wicked sense of humour.
Lounging by the pool, Jimin studied the finest specimen of mankind - Kim Taehyung, who was taking a nap. The late morning sunlight that filtered from the shade accentuated his angelic features.The sun rises and shines for Kim Taehyung.Jimin took in the slow rise and fall of Taehyung’s sculpted abs, his quiet and steady breathes. He tried to mimic Taehyung’s pose – flat down on back, fingers crossed on stomach, eyes closed.
Oh no, no, no.
While Taehyung looked like a resting God on His way to greater powers, Jimin looked like a corpse on its way to the mortuary. See, life would never be fair.Jimin sat up in his sunbed. He grabbed his sketchbook from the side table and started sketching.Live sketch of Kim Taehyung.Smooth shiny hair. Beautiful long lashes. Perfect jawline. Perfect nose. Chiselled abs. Gulp. He’d completed the upper body when…
Oh god, his legs. His long, sexy legs. Why did God give me legs like Corgi’s? WHY???
The glittering pool sparked an idea. In place of legs, Jimin started to outline a tail. He brushed pencil strokes and shaded scales and fins, added sparkling effects.When he was done with Merman Taehyung Sunbathing on a Rock, he chuckled.“Having fun with yourself?” Taehyung opened an eye.Jimin jumped and slammed his book shut, thrusting it behind his back. “Nothing!”Taehyung arched a brow. “Show me”“No.”Jimin’s heart hitched at Taehyung’s predatory move. He was about to leap out of his chair when Taehyung grabbed his waist and pulled him onto his lap.“C’mon, show me,” Taehyung cooed, trying to wrestle the sketchbook out of Jimin’s hands.“No!” Jimin clutched onto the book tightly while fighting to balance himself.When he continued to struggle, Taehyung lifted his hands in surrender. “Alright, alright. I won’t do anything.”Jimin held the book against his chest. “This my secret book. No one ever sees it.”  For good measure, he added, “I’m serious.”“Serious,” Taehyung said.Jimin was about to wiggle out of Taehyung’s lap when his arms tightened around Jimin. He dipped his mouth to Jimin’s, parting his lips and deepening the kiss. A stab of desire shot through Jimin and heat flowed like lava in his veins. But before they could continue acting like hormones-raging teenagers, Jimin turned his head to the side.“What’s wrong?”  Taehyung frowned.Jimin’s eyes traced over the strong line of Taehyung’s jaws and his luscious lips. He swallowed. “Jeju, remember? We have to get ready for the airport soon.”Taehyung groaned like a spoilt child. Jimin covered Taehyung’s mouth with two fingers to stop his advances.“Really,” Jimin said. “We’re going to miss the flight if we don’t hurry.”Jimin was aware that Taehyung had been avoiding the subject for the whole week - dinner with his family and attending Jin’s birthday party.He tried to coax Taehyung. “Didn’t you promise your Mom that you will be there? We can continue this tonight.”There was a moment of hesitation before Taehyung sighed, “I’m holding on to your word.”Three and a half hours later, they arrived at Jeju island. The cool and windy air brushed against Jimin’s cheeks as he stepped out of the airport with an unenthusiastic Taehyung.A black limousine waited at the pickup lane, its driver immediately recognising Taehyung. They piled into the backseat and the car travelled along the coastal freeway. Jimin had only been to Jeju once, with Hoseok for their graduation trip. He fondly remembered Jeju for its fresh air and seafood, and loved the teddy bear museum.Throughout the ride to the resort, Taehyung remained silent, his gaze fixed on the passing sceneries outside. He had been like this during the flight earlier too, speaking only when necessary.From the Kim family members’ profiles which Yoongi had handed over to Jimin, there was nothing new which he couldn’t get from the website.Taehyung came from a family of doctors. His father, Dr. Kim Sooro, was a Director of Seoul National University Hospital. His mother, Dr. Lily Kim was a medical professor at the university.Taehyung’s two elder brothers, Jin and Namjoon, were currently residents at their father’s hospital, specialising in neurosurgery. An interesting information which Jimin had discovered from media articles was that both Jin and Namjoon were adopted children of Kim Sooro and Lily Kim. This meant that Taehyung, the youngest Kim, was their only biological child.The limousine pulled up in front of a Victorian seaside resort. In the broad daylight, the gorgeous maisonette gleamed like opulent gold with lawns mowed to perfection. A bellboy greeted them and took care of their bags.Jimin trailed beside Taehyung, who strolled into the maisonette with a bored expression. The wide hall boasted a high ceiling with a glass chandelier, the area scattered with plush lounge settees.  Art sculptures that spelled of riches and elegance stood at strategic corners of the lobby area. How much exactly, does the Kim family make to afford a family resort like this?Unbothered by the surrounding grandness, Taehyung went to the reception counter.  The receptionist greeted him – is she blushing? – and handed him the room keys. A few guests lingered nearby in varying states of interactions, some pointing fingers at Taehyung. From Jimin’s observations, none of their faces matched the profile photos of the Kim family. Taehyung merely nodded as he passed. They ascended the wide marble stairs towards one of the rooms on the third floor.Once the door shut and they were alone in their room, Jimin broke the long silence. “Can you please give me a crash course about your family? Things that are not in the public profiles and which you’re comfortable sharing with me.”Taehyung shrugged out of his coat, draped it over the back of a chair.  Saying nothing, he pushed open the sliding doors of the balcony. The full vista of the open sea and cool air breezed in.“Would you say something?” Jimin pressed on.“You sound like an interrogator,” Taehyung said, flopping down onto the bed.“I know I’m only a pretend boyfriend, but I still need to appear convincing before your parents. I don’t want to embarrass you.”“You won’t embarrass me,” Taehyung said.“Only if I know what to say,” Jimin could feel his voice rising a pitch higher. “How did your previous pretend boyfriends or lovers fare?”Taehyung propped himself up on one arm, smiled. “You were the first guy I’m bringing to show my parents.”“Seriously.”Taehyung patted the space beside him. “Come here.”Jimin walked over to the bed but sat at the edge. Keeping his back to Taehyung, Jimin’s hands fisted on his lap as he said, “We didn’t even rehearse this whole meet-your-family thing. What should I say if your Mum or Dad asked how we met? How long we’ve been dating? Why are we-”Before Jimin could finish, Taehyung yanked him down onto the soft sheets. He gathered Jimin into his arms. “You just have to be yourself. Leave the rest to me.”“But-”“No more buts.” Taehyung cuddled him as they lied down on their sides, facing each other. He stroked Jimin’s arms and back. Just like that, Jimin’s anxiety melted away.  He buried his face against Taehyung’s chest, breathing in his scent.Taehyung murmured, “My Mum will like you. She has a soft spot for the studious and goody two shoes type. It’s my Dad you have to be mindful of, but I’ll handle him.”When Jimin baulked, Taehyung drew him closer.“Shh… no more talking,” Taehyung said quietly. “I want to take a nap before it’s time to get ready.”Wrapped in the warm cocoon of Taehyung’s arms, the knot in Jimin’s stomach eased. He closed his eyes, listening to Taehyung’s shallow breathing. Slowly, he drifted off. Ringing from the phone woke Jimin. He opened an eye, saw Taehyung already dressed and ready.“That’s my Mom,” Taehyung said as he picked up his phone, strolled to a corner before answering it.“Oh no!” Jimin jumped up from bed and sprinted to the bathroom. He had clean forgotten that there was a private dinner with the Kim family before the evening party.Moments later, Taehyung appeared at the bathroom door. “Cool down, we still have time.”“You didn’t wake me up,” Jimin hummed, his speech garbled by the toothbrush working in his mouth. Taehyung leaned against the door frame, smiling with amusement. Jimin had a feeling that he was being teased.  When he was done washing up, he hurriedly changed into the black-tie outfit which Taehyung had prepared for him.“Ready, Park Jimin?” Taehyung said, adjusting Jimin’s tie.“Yes, Kim Taehyung.” Jimin’s heart fluttered at the gorgeousness of Taehyung in his dark suit. He never tired of seeing Taehyung in suits. This guy could have clothed his body in a garbage bag and still looked like royalty.Holding hands, they walked out of the room together.+++They arrived at a private dining room in the resort. Light from the setting sun speared in through the tall glass windows, which offered a generous view of the gardens and sea ahead.A middle-aged woman in a blue silk gown approached them. She had to be Taehyung’s mother. Lily Kim looked better than in pictures, carrying an air of grace as she walked. Her dark hair was gathered into a bun, reminding Jimin of a smart lady professor.She roped Taehyung into a hug. “I was starting to forget how my son looks like.” Pulling back, her misty eyes lit with maternal pride as she looked up at Taehyung.“It’s been hectic with work these days,” Taehyung said with a grin, the kind which a mischievous boy would give to his mother and knowing that he’d be forgiven.Jimin could see where the good genetics ran in the Kim family - Taehyung had inherited his mother’s eyes and smile.“Mom, this is Jimin, my boyfriend,” Taehyung introduced, “Jimin, this is my mother, Lily Kim.”“Nice to meet you, Dr. Kim,” Jimin held out a hand to shake but Lily Kim pulled him into a hug instead. “Taehyung mentioned you a few times during our phone calls,” her eyes crinkled warmly. “It’s great to finally meet you in person.”“It’s my pleasure to come here with Taehyung.” Jimin answered politely, wondering what exactly had Taehyung told his mother. But Taehyung shot him a dorky smirk that seemed to imply See, I told you my Mom will like you.They followed Lily Kim to the bar for drinks and exchanged more pleasantries. Jimin relaxed and mentally bookmarked Lily Kim as one of his favourite people. She said to Taehyung, “He looks so small and cute. Make sure he eats well.”Taehyung laughed, “You could keep Jimin in a pocket.”Normally, being called small would have discomfited Jimin. As a boy, he had often been teased by the other boys in class for his short height and smaller body frame. But hearing it from Lily Kim sounded like concern and compliment.“I have muscles,” Jimin said lightly, making Lily Kim laugh.“Thank you for coming with Taehyung,” she said in a grateful tone. “It has been a difficult time for him.”When she caught Taehyung rolling his eyes, she admonished in a firm but good-natured way, “I’m going to check what’s holding up your Dad. But I’d like to have a word with you later.”Taehyung watched his mother sailed off. “See, it’s not that difficult.”“Your Mom is a nice person,” Jimin said, and meant it.Taehyung held up their interlaced hands, planted a kiss on the back of Jimin’s palm. “For your stellar performance.”Two men strolled into the room, both impeccably dressed – Jin and Namjoon – in real life, they looked like supermodels out of Armani posters. With attractive looking doctors like Jin and Namjoon, Jimin wouldn’t be surprised if their patients refused to be discharged.As they approached, Taehyung let go of Jimin’s hand.“Hello, Taehyung. It’s been while,” Namjoon said with a tight smile.“How have you been?” asked Jin, the more classically beautiful of the two.  Uncomfortable silence hanged in the air. Something like contempt flickered across Taehyung’s eyes. He slipped his hands into his pockets, reviving his cool poise.“Never better,” Taehyung replied, fixing dagger eyes on Namjoon and then on Jin. “The both of you must be making waves in the medical world and having a hell of a good time together.”Jin appeared a little taken aback. “We’re still learning the ropes and navigating the curve.”“Seems to me that you’re on the right track.” Taehyung commented with a nonchalant shrug. “Come meet my boyfriend, Park Jimin.”Confusion crossed both Namjoon’s and Jin’s faces as they took in Jimin, who shifted awkwardly on his feet. What now? Is there some siblings’ rivalry here?Namjoon, who recovered first, conducted himself like a gentleman. “Pleased to meet you, Jimin. I’m Namjoon.”“Hi,” Jimin said.“Yo, am I missing out a lot of fun?” Jungkook appeared between Taehyung and Jimin, draping his arms over their shoulders.The sight of Jungkook’s boyish grin eased up the tense atmosphere.“Cutting it a bit close, bro.” Taehyung punched Jungkook on his shoulder. “Where’s Aunty?”“Mom’s held up at the salon. She’ll probably miss dinner and join the party instead,” Jungkook said. He winked at Jimin, “How’s our new boy coping?”“It’s a lovely place here.” Jimin pointed to the grand view outside, feeling stupid.“We can go out to sea tomorrow to catch the sunrise. If we’re lucky we might even see whales and dolphins,” Jungkook said.“Really?” Jimin clasped his hands together, whipped his head towards Taehyung. “Can we go?”“Why not?” Taehyung said, flicking Jimin’s nose. “Anything for you, my dear.”Jin and Namjoon exchanged furtive glances, and Jimin had the feeling that Taehyung was deliberately displaying his affection.“Ugh,” Jungkook cringed, rubbing imaginary goose bumps from his arms.  “Spare me from these lovey-dovey stuffs.”“Jealous?” Taehyung cocked a brow.Just then, Lily Kim returned to the room, linking arms with a middle-aged man who Jimin recognised to be Taehyung’s father, Kim Sooro. The room fell silent at the man’s arrival, like he had the ability to turn every colour into greyscale.“Dad.” Taehyung greeted without emotion.Seemingly oblivious to the tension in the air, Lily Kim proceeded with the introduction. “Sooro, this is Jimin. Jimin, this is Sooro, my husband and also Taehyung’s father.”“Ni-nice to meet you, Dr. Kim.” Jimin bowed. The stern-looking man in wired rimmed glasses only gave him a terse nod.They settled at the long dining table and servers began dishing out appetizers and pouring wine.  Kim Sooro sat at the head of the table. “Jimin, right?” he said. “Tell us about yourself.”Jimin drew in a breath. He set down his soupspoon quietly. “Sure, what would you like to know about me, Dr. Kim?”        With a smile that didn’t meet his eyes, Kim Sooro said, “For starters what do you do? How did you meet Taehyung?”Jimin beamed at Taehyung who was sitting beside him. “I’m a program editor at V, Inc. There’s were I met Taehyung.”“An office romance, how lovely.” Lily Kim interjected, the delight evident on her face. “What do you think of Taehyung when you first saw him?”“I thought he was gorgeous and tall.” His honest answer earned laughter from everyone except Kim Sooro. “But most importantly, Taehyung’s very serious and dedicated towards his work.”“Did you major in computer programming in college?” Kim Sooro inquired, a direct presumption that Jimin had completed university education.“I majored in Art in Busan University,” Jimin replied.“It seems rather common these days for young people to diversify their interests.  Or was it a lack of a proper planning?”“Dad,” Taehyung’s voice cut through the air. “Not everyone is as fortunate as you, to have a life neatly paved up.”“At least I followed through and finished what had been arranged by your grandparents-” Kim Sooro flitted sullen eyes to Taehyung. “-instead of dropping out.”Taehyung’s jaw tightened. Not wanting to upsurge the tension, Jimin remarked, “I took Arts in school because of personal interest. But I choose programming as a career for practical reasons. I still sketch in my free time.” The Merman Taehyung which Jimin had sketch this morning now seemed like a distant memory.“I see,” Kim Sooro peeled and dipped bread into his soup, not looking up. “It sounds typical for millennials to find themselves nowhere here nor there then.”“Jimin’s one of the few who can tolerate me.” Taehyung said. “For what he lacks in knowledge and skills, he makes it up by working hard.”“I can vouch for that,” Jungkook raised his glass and winked at Jimin sitting across from him. “One of the most diligent employees V, Inc. have.”“That’s a very commendable attitude,” Lily Kim said congenially.As if to alleviate the atmosphere, Jungkook turned to Jin and Namjoon who were seated at his side, asked, “How’s the resident training going?”Jin seemed to pick up the cue. “We expect the first few years to be tough. We get assigned new cases every day and are put on rotating shifts.”“It has taken a lot for us to get our leave approved for this weekend,” Namjoon said, exchanging affectionate smiles with Jin. Directing his gaze to Taehyung, he said, “Congrats, bro. I saw the acquisition news.”Namjoon must be referring to Big Leap, Jimin realised with a gulp. He inwardly cringed at the memory that he almost screwed up the deal but like capable Avengers, Taehyung and Jungkook had solved the crisis within the day.“Thanks,” Taehyung inclined his head. He did not return Namjoon’s toast.As they dined on, Jimin noticed Jin making a few attempts to get Taehyung’s attention but the latter seemed to ignore him. Each time Jin opened his mouth, Taehyung would either direct his attention to Jimin or talk to Jungkook. Jin gave up eventually.As the main courses were served, dinner conversation veered towards medical theories. Jimin’s sense of detachment grew. Taehyung, he noticed, appeared to listen with mild interest as he took small bites of his seared fish.After a quick glance at his watch, Jimin mulled with disappointment that time was crawling at snail’s pace. How much more of this did he have to endure? He decided to focus on his steak.“Jungkook, as I was saying…” Kim Sooro said. “A Harvard law grad like you should seriously consider a career with a prominent law practice. I can pull some contacts for you.”Jungkook rubbed the back of his neck, said with an appreciative gesture. “Uncle, I know you have my interests at heart. But at this point, I’m keener on building something by myself. Besides, V Inc is making waves in the tech industry. Taehyung and I are in for a fun ride.”“But these tech companies, they rise and fall fast,” Kim Sooro reasoned, disregarding Taehyung’s achievements. “You should expend your resources on worthy things instead of prancing around with a dropout who only wants to have fun.”As Kim Sooro’s words became more scalding, Jimin applied more strength to cutting his steak. He had been trying to cut his steak for god-knows-how-long but despite his efforts, the meat remained intact.Kim Sooro continued, “Our family takes a deal of pride in the prestige of medicine and law. Unfortunately, we only have Jungkook with brains. And of course, Namjoon and Jin – I know our medical legacy is in good hands with them. You need healing hands to be doctors.”“Sooro,” Lily warned.“Taehyung has very good hands,” The words were out of Jimin’s mouth, loud and clear, before he could stop it.  Startled gasps and clanking noise rattled the table. Lily Kim gaped, a hand pressed against her chest. Jungkook wriggled suggestive brows at Jimin. Namjoon was patting the back of Jin, who had choked on his water.Jimin peeked at Taehyung. The alpha had his lips folded inwards, suppressing a laugh. Oh no.When Jimin’s gaze returned to Kim Sooro, the man’s face was tight with distaste.“I’m sorry for that.” Jimin dropped his gaze back to his steak, his cheeks hot with embarrassment. He increased the pressure on his knife but the stubborn meat endured his assaults like a tyre rubber.
Is this steak or Ghandi’s flipflops?
Ignoring Jimin, Kim Sooro rallied on, “…I do not understand why people who have the privileged of studying medicine would give up so easily. We have standards and-”“Ahh!” Jimin yelped as his steak flew off his plate. Members of the Kim family morphed into horrified expressions as the steak soared and spun in the air across the table. Like a movie in slow motion, the slab of meat whirled forward and landed with a spatter of wine sauce on top of Kim Sooro’s plate.Jimin looked at his knife – and realised he was holding a spoon all this time. No wonder it wouldn’t cut!He shot up from his chair and bowed deeply at Kim Sooro. “I’m sorry!”Kim Sooro grimaced, “It seems like you are not very good with table etiquettes.”Taehyung pushed back his chair, fired back at his father. “Don’t you dare-”“It’s my fault,” Jimin put a hand on Taehyung’s arm. “I was too clumsy.” A confrontation between the father and son was the last thing Jimin wanted to see, moreover if they were going to argue because of him.“It isn’t.” Taehyung held Jimin’s hand firmly in his. He turned to his father. “I think we have enough of the food. If you don’t mind, we will see you at the party later.” His expression turned contrite when he locked eyes with Lily Kim.“Wait, Taehyung, wait-” Jimin hurried his steps to match Taehyung’s who was walking fast ahead, pulling Jimin by his wrist. Once they were outdoors, Taehyung halted and Jimin almost knocked into his back.“Are you alright?” Jimin scanned his face. “I must have embarrassed you. Sor-”“You have absolutely nothing to be sorry for,” Taehyung said. “It was my Dad being a pain in the ass.”“He’s still your Dad. Is he always like this?”Taehyung let out a short laugh. “Only to those who fell short of his expectations. For many years, I’m the only one on his list.”“Don’t feel that way,” Jimin put a hand on Taehyung’s shoulder. “You are doing great work out there. He just hasn’t seen it.”“He doesn’t care a flippin’ thing I do,” Taehyung rubbed a hand over his face. “If it’s not related to medicine, he doesn’t care.”Jimin felt a jab in his chest. He tried for a change of subject. “I love your Mom.”“She’s the absolute best.” A real smile finally found its way to Taehyung’s face. “Come, let’s not let my father spoil our evening.”As the evening droned on, more guests spilled into the ballroom and the gardens outside. Romantic music played in the background.Taehyung led Jimin to the centre of the dance floor, joining a handful of couples who were swaying in each other’s arms to the melody.“I don’t know how to dance,” Jimin said worriedly.“You’ll know how to after tonight.”“I’m not kidding. I’ll trip you.”“Do you honestly believe I can’t hold my feet? Just follow my lead.” Taehyung put one hand on Jimin’s lower back and directed Jimin to place a hand on his shoulder. Jimin followed his steps, allowing Taehyung to guide him.“Your shoulders, relax them.” Taehyung said into his ear.“I’ll try to,” Jimin breathed in, trying to keep up with Taehyung who was already slowing down for him. He guided Jimin, waltzing so skilfully that it felt like dancing on air. Slowly, Jimin began to relax.Taehyung’s hands were big and warm, like it contained a universe of sunshine that chased all the dark clouds away.As if he could read Jimin’s thoughts, Taehyung asked. “What’s the thing about me having very good hands?”“I love your hands,” Jimin blurted out and felt himself blushing.Taehyung smirked, “Only my hands?”Jimin jutted out his lower lip. “I shouldn’t have said that before your parents but I couldn’t help it. You have a remarkable brain too.”“Awesome lip service. I should give you a raise.”“I mean everything I say,” Jimin said.At Taehyung’s sensual gaze, Jimin’s heart did another somersault. They continued their slow dance, letting the music whisk them away.“People are looking at us.” Jimin muttered.“Let them look.” Taehyung lowered his head and rested lightly on Jimin’s forehead. “Thanks for coming here with me. You made this so much easier.”Butterflies soared like little whirlwinds in Jimin’s stomach. “I hope I didn’t fail as your personal social escort.”Something passed over Taehyung’s face. He broke away, snapping Jimin out of the sweet fantasy. Had he said something wrong?‘Let’s go and get drinks,” Taehyung said and started towards the bar. “Thank you everyone, for your presence this evening. It means a lot to me,” Jin said from the podium on stage before a gathered audience of guests. He smiled at Namjoon, who was standing beside him. “Since everyone is here, I have an important announced to make.”Excited murmurs rippled through the guests. Drawing in a composed breath, Jin announced, “Namjoon and I will be getting married at the end of the year in LA.”An uproarious cheer erupted and people clapped. Somewhere near the front of the stage, Jimin saw Kim Sooro and Lily Kim beaming with pride at their sons. Jimin wondered if Taehyung had ever gotten that kind of smile from his father.“Woah… I didn’t know Namjoon and Jin are dating.” Jimin remarked. “It was definitely not in their profiles-” His words were cut off as he turned to his side, discovered that Taehyung was no longer beside him.  His eyes searched the area and somewhere beyond the crowd, Jimin spotted Taehyung’s retreating back, striding towards the open doors.For the first time, Park Jimin felt lost by the absence of Kim Taehyung by his side.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

By the time Jimin weaved through the crowd in the ballroom and got to the doors, Taehyung was nowhere in sight. He had a niggling feeling that Taehyung’s walking out had something to do with Jin’s announcement of his engagement to Namjoon. Or perhaps it could be the way his father had smiled at his elder brothers like they were precious gems. This reunion with his family had clearly broken him.Jimin wandered out into the terrace, ventured further to the poolside. There were a few guests hanging out but no signs of Taehyung. Jimin returned to the area outside the ballroom and spotted Jungkook chatting up with a few ladies. The females were giggling at something that Jungkook was saying.  He waved a hand at Jimin, excused himself and walked over to him.“Where’s Taehyung?” Jungkook asked. His eyes searched the area over Jimin’s shoulders.“I’m looking for him too,” Jimin said.“He left you alone to go sulking on his own?”Jimin glanced back to the ballroom. “He just kind of disappeared when Jin was speaking on stage.”“I see,” Jungkook nodded slowly. His face clearly conveyed that he knew something which Jimin didn’t.“He’s been acting out of sorts ever since he knew we were coming here,” Jimin said.Jungkook’s eyes widened. “Didn’t he tell you everything?”“Everything?”Mindful of a few guests who were mingling nearby, Jungkook took Jimin by his arm and led him to a quiet corner where they were out of earshot.“Do you know why you are here today?” Jungkook asked.Jimin didn’t like how this conversation was going, even though Jungkook was aware of his relationship with Taehyung.“I only know that I’m here as his pretend boyfriend so that his Mom will stop fixing matchmaking sessions for him.”“Gosh, that guy’s really an idiot-”, Jungkook cursed with his hands on his hips, “-bringing you here and then leaving you alone and clueless.”“But tonight was enough to tell me that Taehyung is not on very good terms with his dad… and I think Jin and Namjoon too.”Jungkook was silent for moment. He eyed Jimin thoughtfully like he was debating what to say.“Is there something else I ought to know?” Jimin wondered.“I think it’s better if Taehyung tells you himself.”“I need to find him first.”“When he’s troubled, he usually goes somewhere quiet where he could be left alone. He could be back in his room.”“Thank you,” Jimin forced a grateful smile. “I’ll try my luck there.”Jungkook put his hand on Jimin’s shoulder, somewhat worried. “Just take it easy if Taehyung gets into a ripping foul mood, alright? If you need to punch him, call me.”“Then I better prepare a shield in case he really goes into Hulk mode,” Jimin said.+++As Jungkook had correctly guessed, Taehyung had indeed returned to their suite.Jimin spotted Taehyung’s shoes which were being tossed carelessly in the living area. His suit jacket lay in a crumpled lump on the carpet along with his tie. Jimin picked up the shoes and set them down beside his own. He then retrieved Taehyung’s jacket and tie, and hanged them on the coat rack.He walked into the bedroom and found Taehyung standing on the balcony, his back a lonely silhouette.“Taehyung,” he called out softly as he stepped onto the balcony. The alpha remained deep in his own world of thoughts. He was holding up a necklace in his hand. A round pendant dangled from its chain, glowing silver in the moonlight.Jimin had seen the silver pendant before, on his first date with Taehyung. The sight of it transported him back to the private room where they had their dinner. They’d been making out after Taehyung had given him a Rolex. Jimin recalled how Taehyung had turned cold with reproach when Jimin’s fingers had glided over the silver pendant. His heart lurched at the memory.But right now, Taehyung was staring vacantly at the same silver pendant, a forlorn look on his face. For a while, Jimin stood beside him in silence.The sighing of distant waves from the sea filled the otherwise quiet night.  Jimin contemplated words of comfort, decided that ‘are you alright?’ was probably pointless. He said, “If you need a listening ear, I’m here.”Taehyung drew back his arm and threw the necklace, along with its pendant into the open air. The spark of silver disappeared into the dark, falling into the gardens on the ground floor.  But throwing that thing away didn’t seem to solve anything. For Taehyung’s eyes remained sad.  The night got colder.Without a word, Taehyung went back inside and Jimin followed. From where he stood, Jimin watched as Taehyung pulled a bottle of wine from the cooler, popped the bottle and poured wine into two glasses.He lifted his eyes to Jimin. “Drink with me.”Like he was drawn to his voice, Jimin walked over to the couch and sat down beside Taehyung.   “Are we toasting to anything?” He took a glass from Taehyung.“Why not?” Taehyung clinked their glasses, mumbled a careless ‘cheers’ and swallowed his wine in one gulp. He poured another, threw his head back and emptied the glass again. Jimin took small sips of his wine. He observed Taehyung, calculating the appropriate time for interruption before alcohol could do more damage than good.Taehyung was about to pour himself the fifth glass when Jimin’s hand laid over his on the bottle. Taehyung’s hand was startingly cold.“The limit is three glasses and you are one glass ahead,” Jimin said.Taehyung shot him a look that said how dare you.Jimin blanched but pressed on. “You’re going to feel even more miserable when your head weighs like a thousand bricks in the morning.”Taehyung set down both glass and bottle.“Do you want to talk about it?” Jimin prompted.“It’s not like you can help.” came his icy reply.“That’s true, but remember? Moral support? I can give that.”Taehyung rubbed his face with both hands. A faint redness from alcohol tinted his cheekbones. “I’m not the perfect, glowing character you think I am.”“I know.”“What?” Taehyung looked at Jimin with wounded disbelief.“Don’t get me wrong. I know you are perfect and glowing – but only on the outside,” Jimin clarified calmly. “But inside, you have your shortcomings. We all have them, our flaws and imperfections.”“He believes I’m a disgrace to the family,” Taehyung said. His father.The hurt in his voice broke Jimin’s heart. He watched Taehyung tried and failed several times to continue.“It’s okay, take your time.” Taking Taehyung’s hand, Jimin rubbed it between his palms, channelling warmth and comfort.Taehyung closed his eyes, like he was collecting his thoughts and digging painfully into his mind. Jimin waited and continued to hold Taehyung’s hand. And then, like lifting the lid of a Pandora’s box, Taehyung began. “For a few years after they married, Dad and Mom couldn’t have kids. They decided to adopt. Jin came to the family from an orphanage when he was two. Namjoon joined a year later, when Mom saw him wailing in the hospital bed – his parents had died in a car accident. The four of them were a perfect, happy family. Until I arrived.”Taehyung paused and stared into space. He looked so vulnerable… and lost. Jimin’s heart went out to him.  He crept closer to Taehyung and squeezed his hand. Moral support. “I wasn’t part of the plan,” Taehyung continued in a rough voice. “My Dad – you saw him tonight. He’s a no-nonsense person and believes in planning. He already had Jin and Namjoon. So when Mom found herself expecting me, plans had to change. Dad had to invest additional resources to raise me and he was only just starting out as a junior doctor. Growing up, my brothers and I were subjected to his military style of parenting. We followed schedules cramped with tuition, piano classes, arithmetic classes and all other shit classes which were supposedly for our own good. Jin and Namjoon were five years ahead of me and they were always at the top of their game. But I was – am a spectacular flop.”Another painful pause.“It must be bad, having to keep up with your brothers,” Jimin added empathetically.“They were good brothers, tried their best to help me. At one point, Jin deliberately flunk a paper in school but Dad found out.” Taehyung said with a sad smile.Were good brothers. Jimin couldn’t bear to point out the past tense which Taehyung had used.“I just wasn’t good enough. Since young, I’ve been skilled in games and keen on techy stuff. Whenever Jungkook came over, the both of us would indulge in games. Sometimes we would even smuggle them into my room or sneak out of the house at night on our bicycles to explore the arcades.” A soft laugh cracked out of Taehyung.“But those weren’t what Dad was looking for… and Jungkook, he’s a prodigy. He could sleep and play all day and still came out top of the class. God knows what his brain stores. And Jin and Namjoon – they were very disciplined and adapted well to the system. They-” He let out a sharp exhale.“You are smart, too,” Jimin said. He took a bottled water, twisted the cap and passed it to Taehyung.“Thanks,” he drank, cleared his throat. “Where was I?”“Jin and Namjoon.” Jimin supplied softly.Taehyung had this evasive look, as though he was strategising what to reveal to Jimin.Jimin let him take his time. He leaned his head on Taehyung’s shoulders, hoping that his company would calm him down.Taehyung resumed, “You see, I studied hard. Sitting at the desk for hours, cramping books, memorising science theories and doing calculus… those were miserable tasks but I did try. But I also considered fucking it all and just do what makes me happy, but where would the money come from? I was in my senior year in high school when Jungkook was leaving for the States to pursue law in Harvard. I didn’t want to be left behind, was desperate for Dad’s acknowledgement. I had this crazy thought – that if studying medicine would make him happy, why not? And I could spend more time with Namjoon and Jin who were already in med school. They did what they could to help me catch up but I still failed the entrance exams, disappointed Dad. I could tell that was when he totally decided to give up on me.”“You still have a loving mother,” Jimin said.“I would always be thankful for Mom.” Taehyung’s Adam apple bobbed as he struggled to continue. “She tried to intervene but Dad would not listen. There was only so much she could do since Dad was head of the household. Anyway, I must have been mad when I decided to re-take the entrance exams for med school. I was hungry for success. But I failed again. It was also around the same time when Granny – Dad’s mother passed away. Things were really motherfucking bad like nothing could ever be right again. Twice, Jimin. I failed the fucking exams twice. And Granny died- the other mother figure who watched me grow up left us for good.” Taehyung’s voice sounded like the memory was choking him. He clenched onto Jimin’s hand so tightly that it was hurting Jimin.But Jimin let him.“Granny’s death was a wakeup call. I finally came to terms that I could never be the son my Dad wanted,” Taehyung breathed. “After Granny’s funeral, her lawyer came to sort out her estate. In her will, Granny bequeathed me with the largest share of her inheritance - that was four years ago. I left the Kim’s residence for good, used the money which I’d inherited to set up V, Inc. I worked my ass off day and night, hardly sleeping. The first year was pretty bad but I met good people along the way. That house I live in now, it came from Granny’s estate too. I guess she saw that I was struggling and decided to give me something so I could pursue my own dreams – it was sort of her silent protest against her own son. And when Jungkook came back from the States last year, I asked if he would like to be my business partner… and the rest you already know.”Jimin felt the pressure of tears behind his eyes. He swallowed hard, trying to keep himself in check. He said quietly, “Well… this is a sad story.”Taehyung shrugged. “My childhood isn’t a soap opera. I wasn’t beaten or locked up. I had a roof over my head, food on the table and the toys I wanted. I have Mom who loves me unconditionally and Granny who doted on me. There’s also Jungkook, my partner in crime. I have no right to complain.”“You have every right to complain,” Jimin corrected. “No child - In fact, no human should ever be made to feel like they didn’t belong.”But Taehyung wouldn’t meet Jimin’s eyes. They had gone too deep into the painful abyss of his memories.  Jimin took the bottle out of Taehyung’s hands and set it aside. He moved and knelt down between Taehyung’s legs.Cradling Taehyung’s face in his hands, Jimin whispered, “Look at me, Taehyung.”Hurt pricked Jimin’s chest at the desolated eyes that met his.“Don’t ever feel sorry or ashamed of yourself,” Jimin said, brushing his thumbs against Taehyung’s cheeks. “You are not inferior to Jin, Namjoon and Jungkook. You should be proud of yourself. I believe your Dad has good intentions, although he acted the wrong way. One day, he is going to see the fine man his son has become. If he doesn’t, then it’s his loss, not yours.”“I’m never successful in his eyes.”“So what?” Jimin said. “You don’t have to be successful, but you can be victorious – and you are. Right now, I’m seeing a man who has given his best despite the odds.  You’ve come a long way and built an impressive empire with your hands.  Look at the number of mouths depending on V Inc to feed.”Taehyung kept his eyes on Jimin, his gaze softening. “I never had a heart-to-heart talk with anyone about this.” A sad smile.  “But I’m glad to have shared it with you tonight.”“Your secrets are safe with me.” Jimin kissed Taehyung on his forehead. “I mean it, Taehyung. If you need a listening ear, I’m here.”An array of emotions ran through Taehyung’s face. His eyes darkened. “You have no idea what you’ve signed up for.”“Try me.”With that, Taehyung crushed his mouth against Jimin’s. They toppled into the couch as Taehyung pulled Jimin on top of him. He kissed Jimin hard, pushing his tongue into his mouth and fisting his hand into Jimin’s hair.Tantalising shudders skittered down Jimin’s spine at the fruity flavour of wine that swirled in his mouth. He clamped his hands onto Taehyung’s shoulders as the kisses deepened and turned searing.A yearning for more tugged at Jimin’s ribs when Taehyung pulled away. Jimin looked down at him, feeling the heat radiating from Taehyung’s hard body.But Taehyung murmured, “Let’s sleep, I’m tired.”Disappointment clouded Jimin and he tried not to show it. An awful thought that he was perhaps not good enough for Taehyung crept into his mind.“Don’t get me wrong,” Taehyung said, gently stroking his thumb over Jimin’s chin. “As much as I want you, I want to be in my best form when it happens. When I take you, Jimin, I want to give you fireworks and shooting stars.”“Don’t get me wrong too,” Jimin countered shyly. “I don’t want to lose my virginity to a mopey dopey baby.”“Mopey dopey baby?” Taehyung narrowed his eyes, the corner of his mouth quirking up. “Looks like I’ve been too soft with you.”“I’m looking forward to your fireworks and shooting stars to prove me wrong.”“I aim for excellence, Mr. Park.”“I’m at your service, Mr. Kim.” Gawd, was he flirting? Where the hell had he learnt all these?Hot shame burned Jimin’s cheeks. He tried to push himself away but Taehyung clamped his hands harder on Jimin’s back, holding him in place.  “Stay like this for a while more,” Taehyung said.And Jimin did. He laid his head in the hollow of Taehyung’s shoulder. Right now, nothing was more important than making sure Taehyung was feeling better. Curled on his side on the bed, Jimin gazed at Taehyung’s peaceful sleeping face. He watched with fascination as Taehyung’s chest expanded with each indrawn breath. It had taken him a while before he finally slipped into his dreams. Jimin hoped with all his heart that Taehyung’s dreams would be sweet. No nightmares for him, please.His mind kept replaying their conversation earlier. It was difficult, even heart-breaking to imagine that beneath Taehyung’s confidence and swagger lived an insecure boy who yearned for his father’s acceptance.As a child, Jimin had always been showered with love and affection from his parents. His father was fun-loving and doting. He never imposed high standards on Jimin or forced him to become someone he didn’t want to be. Jimin’s father was the type who would rather raise a child to be kind than smart. His childhood was often filled with his parents’ merry laughter. Jimin suddenly missed them even though he’d just FaceTimed his parents yesterday.He remembered that he had to do something else for Taehyung. He lifted the covers and crept out of bed silently, careful not to wake Taehyung up. Making as little noise as possible, he put on his sweater, slipped into his shoes and closed the door softly after him.+++“Taehyung look, dolphins!” Jimin pointed at a small pod of dolphins leaping and rolling in the mild waves ahead of their yacht. From the horizon, the sun rose like a huge orange ball. The sky lightened with robin egg’s blue and streaks of auburn clouds. Below them, the sea glittered like blue sapphire.A new day, a new beginning.Jimin squealed when a baby dolphin flipped near the yacht’s bow where he and Taehyung were standing. The creature rose out of the water in a graceful spiral before dipping back with a splash.“This one is playful!” Jimin laughed.“It wants our attention,” Taehyung said with a contented smile. It was wonderful how he had felt so much better since last night, even if it meant waking up at five this morning and heading out to sea. At Jimin’s laughter that chimed like jingle bells, Taehyung brimmed with delight so full he thought he might burst.Jimin leaned forward the railing, his upper body almost tipping over as he tried to catch a better view of the dolphins.“Hey, careful.” Taehyung put an arm around Jimin’s waist to secure his balance.They sat down on a picnic blanket which Jimin had spread out on the deck.“What’s this?” Taehyung asked as he took the tumbler from Jimin.“Banana milkshake with a scoop of protein. Courtesy of the kitchen staff.” Jimin smiled. He pulled out a small container of carrot and celery sticks from the basket. “Yours too,” he said, crinkling his nose. “I always wonder how these keep you full.”“What about you? Did you bring anything for yourself to eat?”"Ta-dah!” Jimin produced a hamburger, followed by a packet of fries. “You do your healthy shakes and I do my junk. Happiness is subjective.”“Your blood will clog with cholesterol eating those so early in the morning.” Taehyung grimaced. But his heart warmed to the fact that Jimin had prepared his preferred healthy breakfast this time.“Yolo~” Jimin sang, taking a bite off his burger.Basking under the morning sun in the vast sea, they tucked in their food. The waves lapped gently beneath them as cool breeze brushed upon their faces.“Would Jungkook be angry when he wakes up and finds out that we’ve set off without him?” Jimin asked, genuinely curious.Taehyung shrugged. “My bet is that he was pretending to be asleep when you knocked on his door.”“Why would he do that?”“Jungkook has motion sickness. He’s surely more than happy to miss this,” Taehyung said. Yet deep inside, he had a sense that Jungkook probably wanted to give him some alone time with Jimin.When they were done eating, Jimin said, “Give me your hand.”He took something out from his pocket, dropped it onto Taehyung’s outstretched palm.Taehyung blinked at the silver pendant which he’d thrown out from the balcony last night.Scratching his cheek, Jimin said, “When you threw it out, you looked like you’d thrown a part of your life away. I figured out that it must be really important to you. Did your Dad give this to you?”When Taehyung fixed him a questioning stare, Jimin prattled on. “I-I didn’t want you to leave here with regrets. I went downstairs to pick it up while you were sleeping.”Went downstairs to pick it up – Jimin said it as though it was like picking up a key which he had dropped to the floor. But this fucking pendant had disappeared into the gardens at the ground level. How long, exactly, did it take Jimin to find it?Dangling the silver pendant around his wrist, Taehyung seized Jimin’s hands. He held them firmly when Jimin tried to pull away. Faint red scratches, like cuts from branches and twigs spattered Jimin’s fingers.“Your hurt yourself.” Taehyung’s voice was stern, but not reprimanding.“It’s not a big deal. Only minor cuts and I didn’t bleed.” Jimin attempted to pull his hands away again but Taehyung’s grasp remained firm.He looked at Jimin intently, a million thoughts racing through his mind.“Sorry,” Jimin turned his face away, like a child who realised he’d done something wrong. “I shouldn’t have interfered and assumed that you would want the pendant back.”But in the next moment, Taehyung swooped Jimin into his lap and enveloped him in a bone-crushing hug.“How am I supposed to end this if you are like that?” Taehyung whispered as if he was talking to himself.“Huh?”Jimin’s body felt so small in his arms, as if he could disappear anytime. As though if Taehyung told him the truth about the pendant and the real reason why he’d left the Kim’s residence, Jimin would vanish from his life. The ridiculous thought scared Taehyung.His voice cracked as he murmured against Jimin’s ear, “Promise me one thing, Jimin. Don’t ever walk away from me.”“I’m here.” Jimin sounded worried. He shifted to take a better look at Taehyung, who only held him tighter.“Stay, like this,” Taehyung demanded softly, touching his lips to Jimin’s hair.“I’m here.” Jimin repeated. Nesting his head on Taehyung’s shoulders, Jimin remained cradled in his embrace for a long time.Taehyung had sworn off love when it trampled his heart, crushed his soul four years ago.Yet, for the first time since his last heartbreak, Taehyung experienced the most rare and absurd emotion - that he could be falling in love again.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

In the course of the next three weeks, Jimin thrived in getting to know Kim Taehyung better.His Fridays to Mondays belonged to Taehyung. When they weren’t kissing and fondling each other with mutual obsession, they filled their time with long dinners, laughter-filled conversations, night walks and starwatching. Sometimes, they would fight like children in the playroom, jabbing each other in the elbows for the gaming controls. Taehyung, Jimin suspected, would blame it on luck and let Jimin win on purpose when their score gap got too wide.Jimin learned more about the alpha’s habits and quirks. In bed, Taehyung had the habit of hugging something soft in order to smooth his sleep. This object had once been a bolster, which had been tragically tossed aside after Jimin had moved to the master bedroom.Despite sharing a bed, Taehyung hadn’t initiated the next move. He seemed to be taking his time with Jimin, gearing up for the fireworks and shooting stars he’d promised. Yet, whenever they kissed, Taehyung’s lips and warm touches triggered erotic sensations which left Jimin longing for more.He knew his relationship with Taehyung wasn’t real. He was the alpha’s personal escort, money in exchange for company. But Jimin supposed a romantic relationship should feel like what he’d been feeling these days – euphoric sweetness, like candies dipped in honey.At work, Taehyung had an eagle eye for errors and put people on their toes. At the same time, he was quick to give credit when it was due and generous with encouragement, ever the inspiring leader who led by actions instead of words. Gone was the vulnerable Taehyung who Jimin had witnessed that night in Jeju.Friday morning, Taehyung was chairing a meeting before a team of twelve on a new game which V Inc would be releasing. Seated at the head of the table, he radiated confidence and poise as he evaluated proposals put forth by team members. “The idea of using celebrities as ambassadors is rather common these days,” Tao said, showing some statistics on the screen from where he was seated. “About 60% of the companies do that.”“And none of the popular ones match our ideal for this project,” said Chanyeol from Publicity. Yoongi added, “We approached Park Bogum’s agency but they told us his schedule is packed till next year. Same for Song Joongki,”. “We also have to bear in mind controversies surrounding the entertainment industry these days,” Jungkook pointed out, twirling a pen with one hand. “Not that every celebrity out that is rotten, but if we’re going to use one, we would need more thorough checks.”Taehyung ran a fingertip over his chin, contemplating. “What are your thoughts?” He eyed Jimin who was a few seats away.Sitting in the boardroom for the past forty minutes, Jimin had found himself constantly being the subject of Taehyung’s gaze. Hence, it was impossible for him to recognise that Taehyung’s question was directed at him. Until Chen nudged on his elbow and whispered, “Taehyung’s waiting for your answer.”Jimin shifted in his chair, now aware of everyone’s attention on him. When Chen gave his arm an encouraging tap, he glimpsed a flash of irritation in Taehyung’s eyes.The alpha said in a clipped voice, “Don’t be afraid to speak your mind, Jimin.”
Stop looking at me like you want to eat me.
Jimin perused his mental notes for several seconds before he began. “How about a virtual ambassador designed by our people?”“A virtual ambassador by our people?” Taehyung echoed and leaned forward. His face lit with interest as Jimin continued.“…Our people have the best knowledge about our products. They would be able to design a virtual ambassador that fits the new game’s image. We can hold an internal contest for them to submit their character designs.”Taehyung supplemented, “And the panel of judges can come from Marketing and Design.”“That’s a brilliant idea. I vote to go with Jimin’s proposal,” Chen grinned at Jimin, who returned his smile. For a brief second, there was a barely perceptible grimace on Taehyung’s face before it disappeared. Running such a huge company must be really stressful.  “I’ll second that too.” Jungkook aimed a thumbs-up at Jimin. “It could bring about a fresh air of inspiration.”Other members, including those who had yet to speak shared similar sentiments.“Let’s do it then,” Taehyung said, and then to Jimin, “Well done.”When the meeting was over, people gathered their stuff and started filing out of the room. “You go boy, that was impressive!” Chen slung a casual arm around Jimin’s neck as they started towards the door.“You owe us a meal,” Tao joked beside them.Not used to receiving compliments, Jimin said bashfully, “It’s not really my idea. Brainstorming with you guys for the past week has helped a lot.”“Then you really ought to treat us.” Chen drew Jimin to himself and ruffled his hair, drawing out a tickled laughter from him.“Jimin.” A cold voice rang in the air, causing Chen release him. They stopped laughing and looked ahead at Taehyung, who had paused near the door.“Yes?” Jimin blinked. “See me in my office,” he said and strode out.“Did you screw up something?” Chen lowered his voice, regarding Jimin with concern.“I don’t think so, but I better go now.”“I’ll take those back for you.” Chen took the files from Jimin’s arms.“Thank you,” he mouthed, and hurried ahead.The smart glass coating of Taehyung’s office had been activated to block the room from outside view. Jimin knocked on the door and entered.Taehyung was sitting on the couch, one long leg crossed over the other. His eyes were closed, looking like a man with a lot of responsibilities to shoulder.“Is there anything you need me to do?” Jimin asked.Taehyung opened his eyes, patted the empty space beside him - an invitation.Jimin studied his face as he sat down. “You look a little stressed out. Is everything okay?”“You seem to be very close with Chen,” Taehyung said.“Ah, he’s my work buddy and we share similar interests – anime, games, food, you-name-it. I often have lunch with him and Tao when you are not around.” A grin spread across Jimin;s face as he chattered on, gesturing with his hands animatedly. “You know, Chen’s also a fan of Naruto and he was arguing with Tao yesterday on who’s the better man – Naruto or Sasuke. When they asked me, I told them my favourite is Kakashi… and then I remembered you like Itachi and when I told them that they-” His speech halted and his hands paused in the air at Taehyung’s impassive stare.He dropped his hands, winced, “Sorry, I got carried away.”Watching Jimin, Taehyung remarked, “At the way he’s acting so pally with you, one might think that the both of you are seeing each other.”Jimin jerked back, let out an incredulous laugh. “You mean Chen and I? No way, we are just friends.”“I’m thinking of appointing you as my personal secretary.”Taehyung’s statement caught him off-guard. “Why? Didn’t you already have Yoongi?”“I could do with one more.” Taehyung raised an expectant brow. “We can create stuff for you to do.”Jimin looked away. “You shouldn’t be creating a new role just for me.”“You don’t want to be my secretary?”“It’s not that,” Jimin muttered, fidgeting with his fingers. An unsure pause later, he said, “I used to think work was just work. But ever since I joined the company, I’ve started viewing my job with a sense of purpose, loving the stuff I do… I’d really like to continue as program editor…umm… but then…”A warm hand cupped Jimin’s jaw and turned his face slightly. He found himself looking into Taehyung’s dark and thoughtful eyes.“You avoid eye contact whenever you’re afraid to speak your mind,” Taehyung said.“I-”He let go of Jimin. “Fine, you can continue with your current work.”“Thanks…” Jimin muttered, but he was only half-relieved because Taehyung still looked perturbed. “Is there anything else you want to tell me?”“I received a call from a Japanese investor. I need to be in Tokyo by this evening for an urgent conference,” Taehyung said. “’ll be back Sunday evening.”“Oh.” Is that why he was acting all moody since morning? “I wanted to take you with me, but it’d be quicker if I just finish up whatever I have to do and fly back.”“I will see you on Sunday, then.”“Are you sure you don’t need me this weekend?” Taehyung took Jimin’s hand, rubbed his thumb along his little fingers. “We can still book your ticket. Maybe we should.”He was about to reach for his phone when Jimin stopped him. “Don’t worry about me. I can spend the weekend with Hobi. In fact, I haven’t been seeing him much lately.” A pang of guilt stabbed at him at the thought of his best friend.Taehyung relented. “Do you want anything from Tokyo?” “Nah, just have a safe trip.”Jimin was about to excuse himself when Taehyung said, “I have something else for you.” And produced a card from his pocket.Heaviness settled over Jimin’s shoulders as he stared at the credit card. “I… don’t need this.”“Why not?”“I don’t have any use for it.”“I want you to have it,” Taehyung insisted.“I can’t-”“You have a driving licence, right?”Jimin whined at the dawning suspicion. “Please don’t say you’re buying me a car.”“I already bought it.”“Oh god, you...”“I’m Taehyung.” The alpha’s lips kicked up with arrogance.Jimin had to keep his blood pressure in check. Despite Taehyung’s doting ways, his dominating nature could get worrisome at times.“It would look weird for an employee of my level to drive to work,” Jimin said as calmly as possible. “I appreciate your generosity, but I can’t accept your credit card and car. It feels like I’m leeching off you.” And not to mention the amount of salary which Taehyung was already paying him.A low chuckle. “Take it as you’re doing me a favour. I need someone to help me spend my money.”“You can set up a trust fund for a charity cause,” suggested Jimin.“I already did.”“How about setting up more trust funds?”“Good idea.”“Tae-”“Let’s aim for a compromise.” Taehyung pinched Jimin’s nose. “I’ll keep the car, but you’ll take the credit card.”Without giving Jimin a chance to object further, Taehyung deftly slipped the card into Jimin’s shirt pocket.“Alright,” Jimin conceded with a sigh. He would keep the card but not use it.“Take care when I’m away. I’ll call you once I touch down.” Taehyung sounded as if he was going away for two months, instead of two days.But the prospect of his absence for the coming weekend suddenly seem gloomy. “I’ll try not to have too much fun.”  “I’m going to miss you when I’m in Tokyo, Mochi,” Taehyung pressed his brows lightly against Jimin’s.And covered Jimin’s pouting mouth with his to prove his point.+++With Taehyung out of town, Saturday temporarily returned to pre-Taehyung BFF time.After a hearty brunch at Hoseok’s favourite pancake house, Jimin and Hoseok spent the rest of the afternoon at the men’s clothing section in Lotte Mall.“He really said that?” Hoseok pressed a hand on his cheek, looking at Jimin with eyes that could shoot out stars. “If it’s me, I would gladly help him spend his money.”“Oh please, Hobi. It’s ridiculous.” Jimin whined as he followed his friend around the clothing racks.“It shows how much he dotes on you.” Hosek browsed through a rack of colourful shirts “I should meet him properly someday. We can invite him over to our place for hotpot.”The image of Taehyung sitting in their shabby apartment with a steaming hotpot amused Jimin. “I feel indebted to him, that he’s doing these things,” he said.Hoseok blinked up at his friend. “You’re overthinking again, Chimmy. At least he isn’t pushing you in that aspect – he has my respect for that.”“What aspect?”“Sex.”Jimin startled. He whipped his head around for eavesdroppers. “Not here,” he brought a finger to his lips.“It’s a matter of time,” Hoseok reminded, bringing a few shirts before the mirror. “Just let nature takes its course. If it doesn’t work out, you can always terminate the arrangement.”Jimin blew out a breath. As he turned, he caught his reflection in the wall mirror. “I seem to have put on weight.”“That’s least of your worries,” Hoseok assured. “You’ve always been hovering near underweight. Ooh, looks like Taehyung’s feeding you well too. I can worry less now.”Taehyung was always concerned that Jimin didn’t have enough to eat. On top of his daily calorie intake, Jimin would get a glass of protein milkshake from him every morning. ‘If you are adamant on feeding your body with junk food, then you should supply it with protein and fibre to balance out’ had been Taehyung’s response when Jimin had tried to object.“I should start exercising soon,” Jimin said, lifting the hem of his shirt to reveal a small, protruding tummy. “It’s more comfortable for Taehyung to squish and hug you if you are chubbier.”“Ha. Ha.” He snorted, saw that Hoseok had chosen a purple shirt with a pink boa. “Are you getting that for the dance event next month?”“It’s for my date tomorrow.” “Date?” “First date. With Yoongi,” Hoseok said with a toothy grin. “Wait-Yoongi- as in, Min Yoongi?”“We exchanged numbers when he drove you back from Taehyung’s place last week.” “You didn’t tell me that you’re seeing Yoongi,” Jimin’s voice came out a little gloomy.Hoseok laughed. “He only texted thirty minutes ago, asked if I’m free to see him tomorrow.”“How about Song Joongki?” Jimin teased.Hoseok poked a finger at his friend’s cheek. “I keep fantasy boyfriends and real boyfriends in separate compartments. Besides, Yoongi’s currently in the potential boyfriend category. I’m still establishing our baseline.”“That’s a very effective method of compartmentalisation.”“So, how does this look? Or should I choose something brighter?” Hoseok shook the purple shirt before him. The pink feathers around its collar swayed like cheerleader pompoms.Jimin’s mind conjured an image of a solemn-looking Yoongi, in his usual dark clothes. And how he would probably throw himself into the traffic if he saw Hoseok in that horrendous outfit. No causalities are allowed on my best friend’s first date.“Hmmm…”  Jimin scratched his temple as he considered the surrounding options. He settled on a hoodie with red and black stripes. “How about these?” He pulled the hoodie from the rack and gave it to Hoseok, along with a pair of white pants.Hoseok glanced at the outfits picked by Jimin, visibly amazed.“I think you will look great in them,’ Jimin shrugged. “The red colour brings out your bright personality, while black and white add a level of mysteriousness.”The grin on Hoseok’s face spread further. “You’re getting better at this.”Jimin’s mind wandered to his first date with Taehyung, when the alpha had taken him to a salon for a makeover. He thought of what Taehyung had said to him when it came to men’s fashion. He smiled at his friend, “You could never go wrong sticking to three main colour schemes.”They decided to make army stew for dinner and stopped by the supermarket for groceries.The sun was setting by the time they were heading back to their apartment, hands loaded with shopping and grocery bags.Jimin was chuckling at some joke which Hoseok had made when he spotted a familiar figure waiting on the sidewalk in front of their building. Kim Namjoon.Jimin’s heart halted for a split second.Recognising Jimin, Namjoon gave a little wave with his hand and approached them.“Who is he?” Hoseok muttered under his breath.“Taehyung’s brother,” Jimin whispered back.“Hello, Jimin. How are you?” Namjoon said with smile. He gave Hoseok, who was wearing a confused frown on his face, a polite nod.“Hi, I-I’m fine” Jimin said. “This is Hoseok, my friend. Hoseok, this is Namjoon – Taehyung’s brother.”“Hello.” “Hi.”  Awkward.“Are you meeting someone in this area?” Jimin asked.Namjoon adjusted his glasses as he said, “I was waiting for you.”Oh. “For me?”“My father would like to have a private word with you.”Something in Jimin freaked out but he recovered fast. “Okay…should I call Dr. Kim now?”“Actually, he would like to meet you in person,” Namjoon said. He was somewhat hesitant as he added, “If you could come with me now, it’d be good.”Incapable of any other response, Jimin nodded slowly. “Sure.”“I will go with you.” Hoseok told Jimin, keeping a wary eye on Namjoon. Namjoon became noticeably uncomfortable but was understanding towards Hoseok's concern. He said, “It’s better if only Jimin comes with me. I will send him back tonight. If you’re worried, I will leave you my contact number.”Hoseok scowled, opened his mouth to object but Jimin interjected, “It’s okay, Hobi. I met Namjoon and his father before. I’ll go with him.”“But Chimmy-”“I’ll be back soon.” He passed the grocery bags which he was holding to his friend, except for a bag of apples. “I’ll bring these with me.”He followed Namjoon to a car with a chauffeur waiting outside, and entered the backseat.+++End

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Even at night, Jimin could easily see that the Kim’s residence was staggering. Rather than a house, it was parallel to a modern castle graced with large plate glass windows and golden lights that shone from its interior.The interior ran like an art gallery, adorned with European-style furniture that spoke the dwelling of a rich and affluent family.The Kim’s residence was a stark contrast to the house where Jimin grew up in. His home in Busan that looked out to his parents’ strawberry farm under the clear blue skies carried a scent of freedom and welcomed laughter. It tasted of home, an element that was missing from the Kim’s residence. On the journey here earlier, Namjoon had asked him about his relationship with Taehyung, which Jimin’d guessed was probably the reason Kim Sooro wanted to see him. ‘How serious are you about Taehyung?’ Namjoon had asked. His question had stunned Jimin because he hadn’t seriously considered it. He’d ended up giving a half-baked but honest response, ‘I don’t know,’ he’d said, ‘I only know that I don’t see myself with anyone but Taehyung at the moment’. His answer had appeared to impress Namjoon, who’d simply assured him that he didn’t have to worry about meeting his father.  But as Jimin followed Namjoon up the stairway and into a hallway on the upper floors, an uneasy feeling crept into his veins. He was beginning to think that coming to the Kim’s residence was a silly idea, especially when Taehyung was out of town. Jimin hadn’t heard from Taehyung all day and it was starting to worry him, although he must be occupied with work. Too late.Jimin was led into a sitting room where Kim Sooro sat on the couch, unsmiling and looking intimidating as when Jimin had last saw him in Jeju. A housekeeper poured tea for them and excused herself.Kim Sooro gave Jimin an almost imperceptible nod when Jimin greeted him.“I want to have a word with Jimin alone,” Kim Sooro said as he sipped tea. Although his assessing eyes were still on Jimin, it was clear that he was speaking to Namjoon.“But Dad-” There was slight alarm in Namjoon’s voice. “-I was given to understand that I could stay and help-”At the reprimanding eyes that daggered at his direction, Namjoon stopped his words. He cast an apologetic glance at Jimin before he got to his feet and moved with reluctance towards the door.
Don’t leave me alone.
But the door shut quietly behind Namjoon, leaving Jimin to face Kim Sooro on his own.The air grew thick and oppressive. Sitting across from Kim Sooro, Jimin felt as if he was going to be tried for a crime he didn’t commit. Was this how it had felt like for Taehyung, growing up in the Kim’s residence? When the man showed no signs of speaking, Jimin broke the silence. He placed the bag of apples which he’d brought with him on the coffee table. “Dr. Kim, I-I don’t know if you like apples, but please accept this little gift.”Kim Sooro flitted his eyes to the apples in the semi-transparent plastic bag. His cold, judging gaze implied that these fruits were too cheap, too pathetic and therefore beneath his stature. “You can take them back. I didn’t ask you here to talk apples with me.”“I-”“I will get straight to the point.” He leaned back and regarded Jimin. “I want you to leave my son.”A feeling of disorientation seized Jimin. “Why?”“I have seen enough of your kind,” Kim Sooro said in a clipped voice. “Country boy from Busan, raised by farmer parents, in need of money to keep a strawberry farm, barely affording city life. I don’t have to spell out your motives for getting near my son.”The dreadful realisation gripped Jimin with terror. Has Dr. Kim found out that Taehyung is paying me to be his escort?  He took a silent, deep breath. “You checked on me.” “I have to know the company my son mixes with. He had a string of lovers before you. They came and went but you seem like a constant in his life. I’m concerned that he could be serious, or thinks that he’s serious this time. He doesn’t have a good sense of judgement.”No mention of social escort. Jimin’s fear extinguished a little. “Have you spoken to Taehyung about this?”“I don’t answer to my children, or anyone for the matter.” Kim Sooro stared ahead, his words pouring out like acid on Jimin’s skin. “My son thinks his mickey mouse business is a success. His luck is going to run out someday. When that happens, he would come crawling back.” His unsympathetic gaze returned to Jimin. “But I’m not going to let him return with another weed, another useless mouth to feed.”The straining pain in Jimin’s knuckles made him realised that he’d been clenching and pressing his fists tightly on his knees.“Taehyung is not a weed,” he whispered, feeling himself losing out. And neither am I.“One million,” Kim Sooro said.Jimin whipped his head up. And then he understood, swift and brutal. “I don’t want your money.”Kim Sooro refilled his tea. “Two million. Take it or leave it.”“I said I don’t want your money.” Jimin could hear the crack in his voice as he struggled to keep his emotions together.“There’s a limit to greed, kid,” Kim Sooro twitched his mouth derisively. “Don’t act high and mighty with me, when you are seeing my son for his money.”“I-” Waves of shame crushed Jimin’s defences, drowned out the words he wanted to say.  Kim Sooro’s words had hit him lethally in the gut. The man had pointed out that one vicious truth about Jimin, that he’d gotten together with his son because he needed money.Still, money had never crossed Jimin’s mind whenever he was spending time with Taehyung. The things he’d done for Taehyung came from the bottom of his heart, that he truly wanted him to be happy.“The truth hits you hard.” Kim Sooro’s scalding comment snapped Jimin out of his trance. “My secretary will pass you the cheque later, and some papers for you to sign.”“Papers to… sign?” With him, for money.“It’s a form of guarantee. In exchange for two million, you agree to disappear from my son’s life.”
Please let me get out of here.
“Now, don’t look at me with that face,” Kim Sooro said.
Someone, please save me.
At the tears that threatened to burst, Jimin felt his composure slipping. Even in his state of misery, he could hear the unmistaken voice of Namjoon placating someone in the hallway, the sound of raised voices and rushing footfalls.The door burst open and in hurled Taehyung. With Namjoon closely behind. And Jin. And Lily Kim.Lily Kim’s face registered shock as she took in Jimin’s presence. “Sooro, what are you doing!”Jimin got up to his feet, like they weren’t his own. As he locked eyes with Taehyung, he forced his lips up into smile, but a strangled sob broke out instead.Before anyone could say anything, Taehyung had whirled back and connected his fist into Namjoon’s face, sending the latter stumbling backwards.“Taehyung!” Jimin ran over and grabbed Taehyung’s arm. The alpha advanced towards Namjoon, readying his next punch.“Please- don’t’-” Jimin begged as he was being dragged along by Taehyung’s overwhelming strength.“Please.” The tremble in his voice finally halted Taehyung’s steps.Taehyung fired at Namjoon, “Old habits die hard, eh? Still fond of taking away people’s things?”Slumped against the wall with Jin supporting him, Namjoon wiped blood from his nose.“Let me explain this misunderstanding,” he said calmly to Taehyung, “First, you need to get past the idea that Jimin – or any person could belong to another. I took him here because-”“Don’t you ever dare come near Jimin again!” Taehyung exploded. His feral eyes flashed to Jin. “Keep your man on a leash.”“Taehyung-” Jin looked resigned. “Would you please let Namjoon finish?”“To hell with-”A resounding slap of a hand against skin sliced through the air, cutting off Taehyung’s words.Lily Kim gasped at her husband, who was now standing before Taehyung.And Taehyung, with one side of his face stinging red from his father’s slap.“You are a disgrace.” Kim Sooro spat. Those words ran parallel to a dagger at Jimin’s heart, even if they weren’t directed at him.With eyes that conveyed everything and nothing, Taehyung said to his father, “Look for me directly if you have a problem. Leave Jimin alone.”As he turned to Jimin, his attitude softened although his voice was still hard. “Let’s go.” He took Jimin’s hand and started for the door.“You are not a disgrace,” Jimin said quietly.This was a literal nightmare, and it hit Jimin how messed up the seemingly perfect Kim family was. He wretched his hand free from Taehyung and moved to stand before Kim Sooro.There was no timidity in Jimin as he said, “Taehyung is not a disgrace.”Kim Sooro lifted his brows. “So, a little kid is teaching me how to do things.”“Jimin-” Taehyung called out.“Let me finish,” Jimin said over his shoulders and returned his focus to Kim Sooro. “As a doctor, you treat physical wounds. But one doesn’t need to be a doctor to know that sometimes, words hurt more than physical wounds.”“I’m not going to tolerate your insolence. Your parents should know better than have their child talk down to a senior.”“I may not come from an affluent family, but my parents raised me to know not to come to someone’s house emptyhanded.” Jimin eyed the bag of apples on the table, controlled his hurt. “I apologise for not bringing a better gift. If I’d known earlier that I would be coming here, I could’ve brought something better.”“And the point you’re making is?” Kim Sooro crossed his arms.“You are not related to me and I hardly know you, Dr. Kim. Yet, your words have affected me. Can you imagine then, how Taehyung must have felt to have his own father, the one he looks up to deriding him like he doesn’t matter? Deciding not to live life your way doesn’t make Taehyung a disgrace. It simply means he’s brave enough to pursue his dreams.”“Like playing games and fooling around.” Kim Sooro challenged, lording his authority over Jimin. “Look, I don’t know who you think you are or that you are special enough to change him.”An unknown, desperate urge to defend Taehyung made Jimin brave. He was Naruto in Kyuubi Chakra mode. “Do you know the amount of work it takes to develop a game? From concept to prototype, entire teams scurry like ants to keep things going. We’re not just ‘playing’. Deadlines could run so tight that people sometimes stay up late. But Taehyung… he can inspire everyone to set aside differences and work together.  He brings out the best in us and pushes us to become better at what we do. And he’s not just about work. He knows how to have fun too.”“He quit his studies, flunked the entrance exams for med school,” Kim Sooro said flatly.“But that doesn’t make him a life quitter,” Jimin pointed out. “Sometimes, he can be overbearing, stubborn and too full of himself for his own good, but those are likely hereditary. Other than that, Taehyung is perfect. If you’ve seen the way he runs the company and charm the socks off investors, you would understand it’s not luck. Come to V Inc someday for an office tour, and see for yourself.”Something seemed to shift in the withering glare of Kim Sooro. He was about to open his mouth when Jimin cut him off. “About a year and a half ago, Taehyung had to be hospitalised for appendicitis. He admitted himself to a hospital which you had no connections with, because he didn’t want you to find out.” Jimin’s heart tore as he thought of a recent late-night pillow talk with Taehyung, where the alpha had shared some of his past with him. “For a week as he recovered in bed, he was still shooting out e-mails and holding conference calls. Since his discharge, he had to watch out for his diet.”A pained look smeared Lily Kim’s face.“What I want to say is-,” Jimin swallowed a painful bile in his throat. “-you should be proud of Taehyung. Even if he’s jobless or failing, you should still love him.”Kim Sooro’s face darkened. A grave silence hung in the air. “He should’ve told us he wasn’t feeling well. Our hospital has the best treatments.”Jimin took a steadying breath. “Why would Taehyung want to share that with people who look down on him, especially his father? I saw how you ignored him. Not once, Dr. Kim,-” He faltered, then pursued. “Not once have I heard you call Taehyung by his name – not at Jin’s party, and not today.”Kim Sooro opened his mouth and closed it into a tight line, incapable of speech.Instead of feeling wonderful for trouncing a proud man, Jimin felt his bones weakened. Everything inside that was holding him together collapsed.But Taehyung was by his side before his knees could give way. His arm came around Jimin’s waist to steady him.Afraid to meet Taehyung’s eyes, Jimin stared down at the carpeted floor. “Sorry,” he mumbled, “I shouldn’t have talk like that but I… can’t help it.”“Don’t apologise for defending my son.” It was Lily Kim who’d spoken.Jimin lowered his head at her. “I wish I could’ve come to your house under more pleasant circumstances.”Lily Kim smiled faintly, as though she understood everything perfectly. She looked up at Jimin, and then at Taehyung. “Take care of each other, alright?”“I’ll call you soon,” Taehyung said to his mother. “We can have tea or dinner together.”And to his father, he simply said, “You’re welcome to join us. As for my office, the doors will always be open for you.” His tone carried a decisive finality, clear that he wasn’t going to seek out his father’s recognition anymore. Jimin knew Taehyung had done his best, and had no regrets. And he knew Taehyung had now come to terms with this realisation.Jimin finally found the courage look at Taehyung. Searching his face, he couldn’t read Taehyung’s eyes but there was a gleam of warmth within them.“I can stand on my own,” Jimin muttered, his cheeks flaming with embarrassment. He made to step away, but Taehyung’s arm tightened around his waist.“Let’s go home,” Taehyung said, and led Jimin to the door.Behind them, Lily Kim snapped at her husband. “You and I are going to talk now.”From the incoherent mutterings which Kim Sooro was making, he sounded like a patient about to undergo an unexpected operation.Namjoon and Jin looked shell-shocked. Taehyung spared them no words. Not even a glance.“I’m sorry, Jimin.” Namjoon took a step forward, then wavered when he eyed Taehyung’s grim expression. Before Jimin could respond, Taehyung had dragged him away from his brothers.Certain wounds, Jimin thought, ran so deep they would take more than words to heal. Jimin hoped there would come a day when the brothers could bury the hatchet.When they were out of sight and earshot, Jimin eased himself away from Taehyung’s arm. “I can walk on my own, really,” he insisted and resisted when the alpha tried to catch him.Taehyung grabbed Jimin’s hand instead, a show of his little compromise.“Shouldn’t you be in Tokyo? When did you return?” Jimin risked a glance at Taehyung, trying to read his mood.“About two hours ago,” he said matter-of-factly as he looked ahead. “I managed to sort out the affairs and book an earlier flight.”“How did you know I’m here?”An exasperated sigh. “I was welcomed with an avalanche of missed calls and texts from Yoongi the moment I touched down. Your friend SOS-ed him.”Jimin thought of Hoseok. “I better call Hobi now.”Taehyung halted at the foyer. He turned his head and gazed into Jimin’s eyes as he said, “You don’t have to worry. Yoongi’s with him now, likely pacifying his nerves over a pot of army stew. Look, whether you’re going to apologise or thank me or to deliver a speech like the one you’d just given, let’s get out of here first.”Jimin squirmed, nodded meekly.Taehyung raised their interlaced hands and kissed Jimin’s knuckles. “Thank you,” he murmured.His hand continued to hold Jimin’s tightly as they exited the front doors and walked to his car. As if he would never let go.+++End

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“Food first.” Taehyung declared the minute they returned to his place.He was still stewing with rage and awful guilt at what Namjoon had done and he hadn’t arrived in time to stop it. He’d been on the fucking plane instead when his asshole brother took Jimin away.“I’ll get the ice bag for you first.” Putting down the Chinese takeaway which they’d gotten on the way home, Jimin hurried to the fridge.“Jimin, I say food first.”“But your face is swelling,” Jimin opened the freezer for the ice maker. “You need ice to soothe it.”Taehyung swept towards to him in two strides and palmed the freezer shut.At the puzzled look on Jimin’s face, he released a tight huff of breath. “A slap won’t kill me. I want you to eat first. You haven’t had dinner.” And it bothered Taehyung, especially since it was already past dinner time.Without granting Jimin a further chance to speak, he clasped his shoulders and steered him towards the dining table.He planted Jimin into a chair and set the dish before him. “Eat.”Taehyung’s commanding tone made Jimin obeyed him like a lamb. He took the spoon from Taehyung and started on his fried rice. Chin lowered, his unsure eyes stole glances at Taehyung, as if he wanted to say something.Taehyung compromised. “You can get the ice bag when you’re done eating. Chew properly before you swallow.”Jimin bobbed his head. “You should eat too.”Taehyung did, but not before he poured glasses of water for them and transferred a few pieces of shrimp dumplings from the appetizer plate to Jimin’s plate. This boy needed to eat more.  For a while, they ate in silence. As time progressed, Taehyung’s mood brightened a few degrees. There was always a joy in watching Jimin eat; how he would make little sounds of contentment, and the way his face would glow with appreciation while he ate. It stirred Taehyung’s appetite and showed him that it was the company that mattered more than the food.   “How was your trip?” Jimin asked around a mouthful.Taehyung told him about his meeting with the Japanese investors, glossing over the technicalities so as not to bored Jimin. He shared about V Inc’s plans to expand its R&D quarters in Tokyo, to capture the market’s growing demand for high-tech entertainment.“I’ve not been to Japan before,” Jimin remarked with envy and admiration.“We should go there together someday,” Taehyung said as he spooned another serving of mixed cabbages and potatoes for Jimin. “We should?”He laughed a little at Jimin’s quizzical tone. “I’d like touring Japan with you. There are a lot of fun and interesting stuff going on there. We can start with Kanto, explore Tokyo and Yokohama before taking the shinkansen to the Kansai region. I’d say three weeks should do.” His mind began sifting his schedules for clearance. Damn, he wanted to take this boy to see the world.Jimin, who seemed to have faltered, stared away for a second before masking the delight back to his face. “That’s a nice thought,” he commented appreciatively and returned to his food. He didn’t talk again.A tension knotted in Taehyung’s gut as his mind recounted the happenings at the Kim’s residence. What happened before he’d charged into the room to stop his father was undoubtedly responsible for the sadness that now lingered in Jimin’s eyes. Even now, Jimin was still pretending that everything was fine but his bad acting gave him away.In the end, it’d only took a slap from his father and Jimin’s impressive speech to liberate Taehyung from his years of agony. Like waking up from a bad dream, he understood, acknowledged and accepted that he no longer had to feel inferior before his father.But what had propelled Taehyung to punch Namjoon was that look on Jimin’s face when he’d burst into the room. The boy had the face of someone whose world had been torn into shreds and was silently begging to be saved. Yet, he’d pretended to smile when he’d saw Taehyung, as though his father had only called him up for a casual game of chess.What exactly, had his father said to Jimin?No one should take away the light and innocence that was his Jimin. For that reason alone, Taehyung could never forgive himself for allowing that to have happened.“I’m done. Ice bag now.” Jimin smiled, snapping Taehyung out of his thoughts. He bounced off from his chair and went for the fridge.Eyeing Jimin’s emptied bowl, Taehyung readied himself for the next stage. He’d wanted to make sure that Jimin had eaten before they moved on to serious conversation.With his chair angled out to face Taehyung, Jimin lightly pressed the ice bag on the alpha’s cheek.“I’m not even feeling the pain there,” Taehyung said as the ice bag chilled his skin underneath. In fact, the sting from his father’s slap was so negligible that he found Jimin’s fussing to be overdramatic.Jimin sighed. “It’s a handsome face but you should still take care of it.”Taehyung lay his hand over Jimin’s – the one soothing his face with the ice bag. He looked Jimin in the eye. “Tell me what happened before I arrived at the scene.”The shadow that crowded Jimin’s eyes with hurt and unhappiness was difficult to bear. “It’s… nothing you need to worry about.”Taehyung took the ice bag from him and set it aside. “If you want to lie, lie better. Tell me what my dad said to you. I want- need to know. Please.”Because he rarely used ‘please’, his demand had Jimin did a double take. He fell silent but Taehyung could see that he was contemplating, internally struggling with himself. He let him take his time.And then, he spewed out everything he could to Taehyung. Taehyung listened, fighting control of his temper as his mind imagined how daunting it must have been for Jimin to be left alone in that room with his oppressive father. He absorbed Jimin’s retelling with the intuitive understanding that the boy would considerately censor certain parts to avoid hurting his feelings.“… so, that was what happened,” Jimin rubbed at his temple, his voice dropping low with gloom. “But I-I guess your dad is right on certain counts.” A nonchalant, self-depreciating laugh. “It’s true that I’m with you because I need the money.”Jimin was off-center. His usually bright and expressive gestures hadn’t made their appearance tonight. This was not his Jimin.He held Jimin’s hands, squeezed. “I’d wanted to talk to you about this - a proposition which would solve your problem fast.” He waited a couple seconds, gauging Jimin’s reaction and then continued. “If I could buy over the farm in exchange for maintaining this arrangement between us, would you accept it?”Jimin’s face stilled. Instead of replying immediately, he rose and gathered the containers of their finished dinner. From where he was seated, Taehyung watched Jimin clear away the rubbish and move to the sink to wash his hands. He cranked off the water and stood before the sink. His back remained facing Taehyung, clear that he was unable to meet Taehyung in the eye.Please, be okay.Jimin said quietly, “If I say yes to your proposition, it would truly validate what your dad said – that I’m with you because of money. I… don’t wish for that to happen.” An unbearable pause. “In fact, I was thinking that we should… you know, terminate our arrangement. If you agree, I can just continue working in your company and receive the office salary… It would take longer to pay off the debts but I’m sure there are other ways.”“Like what?” Taehyung challenged.He watched Jimin’s shoulders rise and fall on a slow sigh. “I-I could go back to the escort agency, take on evening and weekend assignments. It shouldn’t be too difficult if the clients are a one-off basis and…”Taehyung didn’t register the rest of Jimin’s words. He was already on his feet and crossing to his side. He swivelled Jimin to face him.Jimin startled. “What-”Taehyung jerked him up and propped him on the edge of the marble top. Struggling for balance, Jimin dropped his arms onto Taehyung’s shoulders as his legs dangled in mid-air.Jimin took a sharp intake of breath, silenced by whatever murderous thought that must be glaring on Taehyung’s face now.  Keeping his firm grip on Jimin’s waist, Taehyung clamped the back of Jimin’s neck with his other hand and kissed him.Taehyung’s mouth wasn’t gentle in its taking. It was demanding, even punishing, daring Jimin to repeat what he’d just suggested. Jimin’s already tensed body shuddered at first but went limp with a sighing breath. As the kiss deepened, Taehyung felt Jimin’s mouth softened and relaxed invitingly under his claiming.“Look at you melting for me,” Taehyung murmured, kissed the corner of Jimin’s mouth. “Now, imagine it was some random man doing that. Some sicko touching and fucking you. How would you feel?”The cruelty of his words slit through like sharp razor. Taehyung felt Jimin’s body stiffened. “Don’t- don’t scare me like that.”He held Jimin firmly in place when he tried to get down. Although his heart guttered at the anguish now evident on Jimin’s face, he pressed on harshly. “You talked about escorting men like its easy peasy stuff. So tell me, would you rather stay by my side or spread your legs for other men?”Jimin flinched, voice shaky. “Of- of course I want to stay with you, but-”“Then stay,” Taehyung shot back.“I can’t.” Jimin words trembled, a film of moisture in his eyes. “It- It’s easy for you to get lovers. You don’t have to insist on keeping me. I-I don’t know what’s the deal with you.”Taehyung’s control blew up and he shook Jimin, hard. “My deal - my fucking deal, if you want to know was that I fucked my past lovers in hotel rooms. None of them were worthy enough to step through this door and I’ve never shared my bed with anyone. Until the day you fucking entered my office for that damn interview and changed everything!”He watched Jimin’s mouth parted slightly as he swallowed a sob. “I-I don’t want to be a burden to you.”That was it, Taehyung thought. They were finally at the crux of the problem. Jimin wanted to leave because he didn’t want to implicate him. Taehyung swore he could’ve merrily murdered his father and Namjoon.Taehyung let out a long, deep sigh. “Where’s all that confidence you had when you defended me just now?”“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” The confused crease of Jimin’s brows made Taehyung understand another thing – that Jimin could be brave for the people around him but not for himself.He stroked Jimin’s cheek. “Do I have to make it any more obvious, that you’re not like any of my past lovers, that you’re different?”“I…”“Don’t ever think of yourself as a burden, not even for a second. I won’t allow that.” He rubbed a soothing hand on Jimin’s arm. “I won’t toy with the idea of buying over the farm and in exchange, promise me you won’t think about funny things.”Jimin gave a small, hesitant nod.“And ignore my dad’s words,” Taehyung continued. “If he could be an arse to his own son, moreover others.”“Don’t speak of him like that,” Jimin said quietly. “I mean… we may not know why your dad is like that, but I’d like to think there’s a part of him, no matter how small, that loves you.”Taehyung’s heart clenched. It was an odd sensation he would get these days whenever Jimin said something positive and hopeful. And this boy was full of hope, although he wasn’t so right now.He tipped Jimin’s face toward him. “He won’t be bothering us, at least not in the near future.”“How do you know?” Jimin chewed at his bottom lip. A Jimin-sign which Taehyung recognised to mean he was unsure, not confident.  “You saw the way Mom reacted. I’d never seen her getting so worked up. What you’d said to Dad probably got to her.”Jimin winced, “Is that a good thing?”“I believe it is. Your words and your actions, everything about you surprises me, Jimin. Yet sometimes, they make me mad.” So bloody mad.Jimin rubbed at his eyes. He sighed as he returned to Taehyung. “I’ll try to be better at not making you mad.”“Deal.” Taehyung sealed his promise with another kiss.*At Taehyung’s kisses, Jimin felt his worries and fears melt away like wax from a burning candle. Kissing Taehyung had come so natural for him these days, he didn’t even have to think about it.He moaned into Taehyung’s mouth when the alpha grabbed his butt and tugged him forward. He slid off the marble top and grounded his body against Taehyung, his softness against his steel.“I want you,” Taehyung murmured against his collarbone.Jimin’s skin flushed as a sharp aching welled below his stomach.“Take me,” he whispered back and closed his arms around Taehyung’s neck. “I’m all yours.”Suddenly Taehyung was scooping him into his arms. His heart thudded roughly with anticipation as Taehyung carried him upstairs.The alpha’s eyes told him everything, his needs and his wants which he would set free from the cage tonight.They were finally going to do it. Tonight.In the bedroom, they tugged off each other clothes, stripped until they were only in their boxers.  Taehyung dimmed the lights to a soft orange glow, setting the mood for sex.He lay Jimin gently on the sheets, tucked a soft pillow behind his head. Hovering over Jimin, Taehyung thumbed the boy’s chin, coaxing his mouth to part for him. His mouth descended, and took Jimin’s.Jimin quaked with yearning under his kisses. Taehyung’s mouth tasted exceptionally good tonight. As the alpha’s tongue flicked in and explored, a soft sigh rolled in Jimin’s throat.“So good…” Taehyung’s hot breath fanned over Jimin’s ear. His mouth travelled down to Jimin’s neck to his shoulders. His big, warm hands explored every inch of Jimin’s body, caressing with tender lovingness. ‘Cute tummy.” Taehyung nuzzled his face into Jimin’s tummy. “So warm and soft like a baby’s pillow.” He sucked on Jimin’s belly button, chuckled when Jimin gasped at the ticklish sensation.“The owner of this cute and soft tummy rescued me. Twice,” Taehyung murmured.“Twice?” Jimin had to bite his lip to contain another lewd sound from escaping.Talking soothed Jimin’s nerves and distracted him from first-time sex. As though Taehyung knew he was nervous and was trying to sooth him by talking to him.“First at Jeju, and then just now,” Taehyung recounted, brushing his lips on Jimin’s belly while his fingers toyed with his nipples. “How should I reward you?”Jimin’s body shivered with sweet longing and his fingers gripped harder on the sheets. It was an effort to keep his voice steady. “I… don’t know.”“You don’t know,” Taehyung purred. “But your little brother here says otherwise.” He cupped his palm over the bulge of Jimin’s erection protruding through his boxers.Heat flamed Jimin’s cheeks and spread down to his neck. He covered his face with his hands. “Don’t tease me.”A soft, dark laugh from Taehyung. He hooked his fingers beneath the elastic band and pulled Jimin’s boxers down in one slick yank. Jimin’s erection sprang free, his naked skin coming into contact with the cool air.“Look at me, Jimin.” There was a smile playing in Taehyung’s voice. “I’m not a big bad wolf.”Jimin’s face burned harder. He shook his head and made a small sound of protest.“What a shy boy,” Taehyung snickered. “I know how to make you relax.”A surprised gasp leapt out of Jimin’s mouth at the sudden assault of something warm, wet and mushy enveloping his cock. His hands flew away from his face and grasped the sheets.“Tae-” He rose up on his elbows and looked down at Taehyung working his mouth in and out of his cock. The alpha’s eyes met his with a naughty gleam.Taehyung popped the head of Jimin’s cock out of his mouth like someone sucking on an ice pop. His tongue flicked over Jimin’s little member and licked its length in an erotically sinful fashion. Jimin felt his own balls constrict with hotness.“Ahhhh…” His knees arched and widened apart instinctively to give Taehyung better access.“Watch and learn,” Taehyung murmured and took the entirety of Jimin’s length into his mouth again.Jimin gasped and thrashed his head back as he felt the increase of Taehyung’s suction. The alpha worked his mouth over his cock, his tongue inside twirling around his member so quick and fast it drove Jimin to the edge. His toes curled as his body jolted for the first orgasm.Was this how a blowjob felt like? God, where was he living all these years?“I-I’m going to come,” Jimin breathed hard. “Take out pl-”.But it was too late. He let out a sharp cry as he came, spurting himself directly into Taehyung’s throat. Embarrassment mixed with pleasure blanketed Jimin’s nerves.Eyes glinting with male satisfaction, Taehyung released Jimin from his mouth. He held his glistening fingers and licked. The intensity of Taehyung’s eyes and the way he swiped his thumb over the milky gloss of his sensual mouth stirred Jimin’s core, making him ache for more.“Taste yourself,” Taehyung whispered and leaned down to claim Jimin’s mouth again. Jimin tasted himself in Taehyung’s mouth; the salty taste mingled with honey vanilla sweetness of the alpha’s kisses.But Jimin gasped in the next moment when Taehyung slipped a finger inside him, lubricating it with his juice. He groaned and shook madly at the sensations, feeling his inhibitions peel away.And then Taehyung removed his own boxers.Jimin sucked in a harsh breath as his eyes focused on the sheer size and length of Taehyung’s cock.It was much bigger than his. No, not just bigger. It was massive.Panic squeezed Jimin’s guts.
What if he doesn’t fit?

What if I can’t do it right?

Oh, no no no.
Taehyung calmed, “It might hurt a little, but I’ll go slowly. In the beginning.”Countless knots tightened Jimin’s belly. Despite his apprehension, he was burning with desire for Taehyung; a desperate need to be held by him, marked by his scent and touch.“Look at me,” Taehyung whispered. His masculine hand grabbed both of Jimin’s small wrists and brought them up above his head.Eyes locked on each other, his other hand guided below and slowly pushed inside Jimin.Inch by inch Taehyung entered. Tortuously slow.Jimin’s inner walls stretched to accommodate his size. He whimpered at first in pain and then swiftly in both pain and pleasure.He was on fire when the full swell of Taehyung’s cock settled inside him, stretching and filling him to the brim. He felt Taehyung groan and shudder as his cock expanded inside him.Looking down, Jimin became bashfully aware of the fact that his small body was capable of absorbing the magnificence of Taehyung’s manhood. Fully and wholly.“I want this to be good and memorable for you.” Taehyung’s eyes glazed with primal hunger. He began to shift inside Jimin in slow and patient strokes, moulding Jimin to his rhythm.A gratifying groan rumbled in Jimin’s throat as his fingers tightened above him. His body whirled in full arousal, awakened by Taehyung’s moves.In and out. In and out.Jimin’s breathes convulsed into huffs as sweat glistened their bodies. He arched his hips forward to meet the alpha’s needs.With an answering smirk, Taehyung released Jimin’s hands and gripped his hips. Without warning he parted and lifted Jimin’s hips higher, and plowed deeper. And began pumping faster and harder, rocking the mattress beneath them.Jimin felt his entire being soared to heart-pounding levels of ecstasy. His breathes laboured alongside Taehyung.

“Tired?” Taehyung asked.Despite the effort he was expending to keep up with Taehyung’s stamina, Jimin didn’t want him to stop. It felt… great.“No- don’t stop…” Jimin panted, and cried out when Taehyung responded with harder thrusts. He bent down and seized Jimin’s lips. Soft, delightful, warm.Another moan into the alpha’s mouth. Heat bloomed inside Jimin, intensifying and unstoppable. He clamped his legs around Taehyung’s waist and leaned his head into the alpha’s shoulders, accepting every plundering thrust. His arms clung to Taehyung, his fingers digging into his back as they bodies moved.The smell and sound of sex filled the room as their bodies rocked madly against each other. Flesh slapping against flesh, mouths and tongues, warm moist skins and ragged breaths.As they hurtled to the peak, Jimin screamed out Taehyung’s name like a lover’s cry. The alpha roared back his name in response as he emptied himself. A joining of bodies, and of souls. As though they were made just for each other, perfect in unison.Jimin release a final shudder as Taehyung’s seeds spilled inside him like hot, liquid silk.A rush of hot tears blurred Jimin’s vision.In complete surrender, he let go and went with Taehyung.To whatever end he might take him.*Moments later, Jimin remained lying in bed. Eyes closed, his ragged breathing had slowed considerably, allowing his mind to catch up.Taehyung remained on top of him, still inside him as though he had no intention of pulling out.His fingers caressed Jimin’s face and smoothed his tousled hair.“How’s my Jimin doing down there?” He asked in a low, enticing whisper.Jimin half-opened his eyes, saw himself in Taehyung’s wild and dark pupils. Gosh, the alpha’s fresh-out-of-sex glorious smile had just killed him again.Jimin muttered in a drowsy murmur, “I saw fireworks and shooting stars.” He was completely shagged, too spent to say more to Taehyung.Feelings of being held and cherished swamped Jimin. It was more than just sex to him. Emotions which he couldn’t readily identify had been involved. It made him ponder if anyone else would ever hold him and coax him the way Taehyung did. A tear slid down his eye.Taehyung kissed the tear away, muttered something which Jimin didn’t catch.He closed his eyes again. He felt a dip in the mattress as Taehyung rolled off him. Covers were drawn up their naked bodies and Taehyung shifted Jimin into his arms, kept him in his warmth. The lights were flicked off.As Jimin slipped off into his dreams, the idea of starting a workout regime played in his mind. He decided that building up his stamina was the only way to combat Taehyung in bed.“I want to go to the gym soon,” he slurred in the darkness, snuggling against Taehyung.The strong arms around him tightened and lips brushed into his hair, inhaled. “We can work out a routine.” Taehyung’s hypnotic low voice drifted into his ears. “Now, sleep.” A goodnight kiss on his lips.And that was how Park Jimin gave his precious first time to Kim Taehyung.And something else.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Jimin thought he’d seen fireworks and shooting stars. Even felt them coursing through his body.Metaphorically speaking, of course.Physically speaking, he’d became a total wreck – a contented, happy wreck. The sex had been mind-blowing.Taehyung was a beast in bed, a force to be reckoned with.  In the middle of the night, his massaging hands on Jimin’s shoulders had roused him awake. They’d ended up with another round of sex which’d left Jimin feeling like he’d ran a marathon, and then outdid himself with another triathlon.He’d lost sensation of his legs, slept comfortably. Jimin stirred awake in slow degrees.The autumn morning sun streamed through the windows, bathing the room with soft, natural light.Under the covers, his naked body was curled against Taehyung’s. Wrapped in the alpha’s arms, Jimin nuzzled into the hollow of his shoulders. It felt right being held by Taehyung like this. Like he was made just to be cuddled by him.He sighed with contentment at Taehyung’s sleeping face. The face of an angel, so heartbreakingly beautiful, and his to appreciate for this moment.He brushed a finger lightly against Taehyung’s morning-rough cheek.“I know I’m handsome,” Taehyung said in a husky voice and opened his eyes.“You already woke up,” Jimin gave him a sleepy smile. Taehyung usually slept last. But he always woke up first.He took Jimin’s hand and pressed his little fingers lovingly to his lips. “They are like baby carrots.”“But they are strong enough to grab you.” To prove his point, Jimin glided his free hand down and pulled at Taehyung’s cock, surprising the both of them.A sensual growl rumbled in Taehyung’s throat and instant fire lighted his eyes.“You should respect the organ that made you came four times,” the alpha murmured.Making love with Taehyung had bridged their intimacy and peeled Jimin’s awkwardness away. He skimmed a finger coyly along the alpha’s jaw. “I don’t know if four times is considered fab, since I don’t have any reference for comparison.”He let out a laughing yelp when Taehyung rolled on top of him.Trapped beneath Taehyung, Jimin could already feel the alpha’s rousing desire. His senses frizzed with a new rush of anticipation.Without breaking eye contact, Taehyung spread and lifted Jimin’s hips. “Let’s make that five then,” he said, and slowly eased his harden cock inside Jimin. Morning sex proved incredible, and the sex in the shower that followed was a unique experience for Jimin. Lathering each other’s bodies under the warm shower skyrocketed their intimacy. It brought Jimin closer to Taehyung, and turned the mundane activity of cleansing into something to look forward to.By the time they stepped out of the shower and towelled each other off, Jimin was pleasantly sore and truly sated. As he peered into Taehyung’s wardrobe which now had a section for his own clothes, playful mischief got the better of him.Instead of his own shirt, Jimin grabbed one of Taehyung’s T-shirts and pulled it on over his head. The shirt was oversized for him and it drooped off his left shoulder. Still, wearing Taehyung shirt made Jimin feel that he was a part of him. The male delight in Taehyung’s eyes when he saw Jimin wearing his shirt made it worthwhile.While Taehyung was catching up on the morning news and stock market, Jimin headed downstairs to the kitchen to make breakfast.He was starving.Starting with Taehyung’s usual, he poured milk and sliced banana into the blender and put it on spin.Next, he whisked flour and butter into a mixing bowl. Pancakes, with generous servings of cut fruits were on his mind.Humming a tune while whipping the mixes, Jimin startled when he turned and saw Jungkook standing at the threshold.“You scared me. I didn’t hear you come in,” he wheezed.“You were too busy singing to Shape of You and chuckling to yourself,” Jungkook whistled as his eyes ran over Jimin’s clothes, making him suddenly self-conscious. Jimin felt his face reddened. “I’m preparing pancakes.”“You remind me of a good wifey making breakfast for his husband.” Jungkook pulled out a packet of milk from the fridge and pushed himself up to sit on the counter.“Then you would be the father-in-law who barges in unannounced,” Jimin said.Jungkook laughed. “Has my son Taehyung been naughty or nice?”Jimin was spared from answering as Taehyung sauntered in. The alpha narrowed his eyes at Jungkook who was drinking his milk. “What is a third wheeler doing in my house?”“Don’t be rude to Daddy,” Jungkook pitched his voice to a dramatic low. But his expression became serious in the next moment. “Don’t you ever check your phone? I’ve been trying to reach you since last night.”“I was busy the whole night.” Taehyung poured himself a glass of water, and shot a quick smirk at Jimin. “Very busy.”“Ah,” Jungkook nodded. “No wonder your boy has got a golden halo shining brightly above his head.”“And eyes that sparkle like stars.” Taehyung lifted his glass.“And ears shooting out rainbows.”Jimin winced, looking between both males. As if one Taehyung wasn’t enough for the teasing. He cleared his throat. “Jungkook, would you like to join us for breakfast?”“Breakfast in bed?”Taehyung chucked a roll of kitchen towels at Jungkook, who caught it an inch away from his face. “Nice one, cousin. Ha, you don’t need these already.”Taehyung moved towards Jungkook to remove him. “Jimin and I’ll eat in bed. You will settle for the garage.”Jimin watched with amused pleasure as the cousins argued, jabbed elbows and took their battlefield to the living area that was open to the kitchen. At one point, Jungkook snapped his head back in laughter, gloating at Taehyung who was scowling at something he’d said. Then they started talking in lowered voices, with the serious looks they usually employed when discussing business – probably the purpose of Jungkook’s visit.Listening to Jungkook, Taehyung had a contemplative expression as he placed his fingers before his face - a Taehyung-sign which Jimin had recognised to mean that his brain was meshing the gears, debating and strategising.What Taehyung and Jungkook shared was beyond friendship, Jimin thought as he observed from the threshold. It was brotherhood that tied the two cousins together, a bond which had been nurtured since young and become stronger over the years. Late-night conversations Jimin’d shared with Taehyung told him that Jungkook was one of his pillars of support in those tumultuous times of his childhood.Stepping into the living area, Jimin passed Taehyung his banana milkshake.He said to Jungkook, “I’ll make an extra serving of pancakes for you.”Jungkook’s face lit up. “May I add strawberries and maple syrup as well?”“Of course.”Taehyung was puzzled. “What’s the occasion?”Jimin grinned. “To the world being a better place because of Jungkook.”Humming, he swung back to the kitchen. After breakfast, Taehyung and Jungkook were headed to the study to discuss company matters. From the nods they had exchanged, Jimin knew their discussion was something he wasn’t privy to.“Jungkook and I have to go to the office to settle some affairs. It’ll take a while,” Taehyung told him.“Can I come with you?” Jimin asked. He thought of the poster which he had volunteered to put up for the employees’ character design contest for Aurora Stars, V Inc’s new game. “I can do some work at my station.”“I don’t want you to work on a Sunday,” Taehyung said, his tone adamant. “Stay here or go out and have fun, do something you like.”“I’ll go out then,” Jimin said, trying to keep the disappointment away. There wasn’t much point staying at home alone. Truth was, he’d been looking forward to spending the day with Taehyung and wouldn’t mind if it was at the workplace.“I’ll call you when I’m done.” Taehyung tapped Jimin’s forehead with his finger. “Wear a light jacket if you’re heading out. A T-shirt isn’t warm enough for this weather.”“It’s still early autumn,” Jimin pointed out, noting that there were still traces of summer heat. “And I’m going to stay indoors.”“Wear a jacket,” Taehyung repeated.“Okay.” The bus ride took Jimin to the downtown area where he wandered aimlessly. During the bus ride, he’d called Hoseok to assure him that he was good and well. Jimin figured that Yoongi must have updated his friend about what happened at the Kim’s residence. But Jimin had left out the part where he’d sex with Taehyung. He wanted to keep the special memories to himself for the time being.For the rest of his morning, he settled down in a café and sketched away in his book over a cup of hot chocolate. When the lunch hour began to fill the café crowd, he went a nearby mall.While browsing at the clothing section, Jimin chanced upon a pyjamas’ promotion at the sales booth. A white PJ set with blue stripes and tiny red hearts caught his eyes. He ended up buying two sets - one for himself and a bigger sized one for Taehyung.

He also added a yellow beanie to his purchase for Hoseok, musing at how the design would look good on his friend.  Jimin was cruising among other shoppers in the electronics section when he spotted a familiar figure.“Chen?”Chen glanced up from the rows of TV screens and broke into a huge smile. “Jimin! What a surprise to see you here!”“Yeah,” Jimin smiled back. “Are you meeting someone here? I remember you staying quite far from this area.”Rubbing the back of his neck, Chen let out an awkward laugh. “You see, this mall’s having their anniversary sale. I thought of dropping by for some good bargains.”“Ah,” Jimin’s curious gaze flitted to the TV screens. “Are you getting a new one?”“I’m getting stuff for my new place.” Chen pointed to a 43-inch LG screen on flash sale. “What do you think of this model?”“Hmmm…” Jimin tapped his chin. “I’m not an electronics expert but it does look good to me, considering the price.”They chattered on, comparing various models and their prices. Good bargains always attracted Jimin’s interest and boosted his Ahjumma spirit. The next two hours had him and Chen eagerly exploring other sections, sniffing out deals and free gifts.“You’re so good at this.” Chen said in awe. Jimin peered into a rice cooker, fidgeted with its buttons. “It’s a trait you acquire when you need to save up. Besides, cheap doesn’t always mean it’s bad. Hey, this comes with a free set of dining ware and a 1-year warranty.”“Sounds excellent,” Chen noted and jotted down the rice cooker’s model number on his purchase list.“Why are you moving?” Jimin asked.“The landlord of my current place sold the apartment. I’m lucky to find another place within such a short time. Rent’s cheap but the place is almost stripped bare.” His gaze roamed back to Jimin. “Let’s chill at my new place when it’s up and ready. Tao already self-invited himself.”“Sure, let me know when.”They headed to the cashier when Chen had finalised his purchase list.“Sir, this card’s not working,” the cashier said as she handed the card back to Chen. “Do you have another card or would you like to pay by cash?”“Oh dear-” Chen licked his lips nervously, digging into his wallet. “I must’ve forgotten to pay the bill.”“Is everything alright?” Jimin asked, concerned by the sudden stress emitting from Chen.“I forgot to bring my debit card.” Disappointment creased Chen’s brows as he said to the cashier. “I’m sorry, but I don’t have enough cash with me right now. Can you hold these items for me while I head home to get another card?”“I’m afraid not.” The cashier showed a tiny hint of irritation at the growing queue of customers. “Our policy doesn’t allow reservation of on-sale items.”“It’s alright,” Jimin intervened. “I’ll pay first.”Without hesitation, he pulled out his wallet and handed the credit card which Taehyung’d given him to the cashier. His mind reasoned that using Taehyung’s card to help out a friend didn’t mean he was spending his money, and he would pay it back anyway.Chen gaped at the gold card. “No, Jimin. I can’t let you-”“It’s okay,” Jimin assured him. “You can pay me back later. It’s not worth the trouble for you to head all the way home and make a second trip here.”Embarrassed but grateful, Chen patted Jimin’s shoulders. “Thank, pal. I’ll pay you back asap.”“No worries.” Jimin signed on the receipt. He filled in some particulars for a lucky draw contest, which the cashier told him the card entitled him to. He then followed Chen to the delivery counter to arrange for his purchased items to be sent to his new place.“Let me buy you lunch,” Chen offered as they left the store.Jimin hesitated for a beat since he was expecting that Taehyung would call soon. He didn’t miss the anticipatory look in Chen’s eyes as he waited for an answer.Jimin smiled back, not wanting Chen to feel any worse than he already did. “Alright, but a simple meal will do.”“I know just exactly where to bring you!” Chen’s expression lit up. He looped a casual arm around Jimin’s shoulders as they headed to a fast-food outlet.*Business knew no weekends, heeded no rest. What needed to be done had to be. It was one of the golden rules for running a huge company in this competitive and cut-throat industry.Still, returning to the office on a Sunday soured Taehyung’s mood. It ate up his precious time with Jimin. Working on weekends was something Taehyung rarely did but today was an exception.Yoongi was already waiting in the boardroom when Taehyung and Jungkook strode in. “I apologise for disturbing your free day,” Yoongi said.“It’s yours as well,” Taehyung propped down into a chair. Because he was concerned about Jimin’s friend, he asked. “How’s Hoseok?”There was a rare flush on Yoongi’s face. “He was in a bit of a shock last evening. He was fine after I’d talked to him, and Jimin called him this morning.”“You stayed overnight at his place?”The pink flush deepened but Yoongi deadpanned. “I slept on the sofa.”Taehyung had to hold back his laughter, as he recalled Jimin’s affectionate story of how his apartment walls were splattered with posters of Song Joongki, because Hoseok was his die-hard fan. He wondered how a serious person like Yoongi’d felt as he slept under the watch of so many Joongkis.“I’ve been wanting to ask you that,” Jungkook levelled an interested look at Taehyung. “Mom told me this morning about the scuffle at the Kim’s residence - Aunt called her. I’m impressed by Jimin.”Taehyung’s mouth quirked, “That boy drives me nuts sometimes. But he drove Dad speechless last night.” His heart still dipped at the knowledge that Jimin had been hurt in the process.“Boyfriend protects boyfriend. Best drama of the century,” Jungkook remarked.The lightness on Taehyung’s face when he’d spoke of Jimin was gone in the next instant as he moved on to the agenda of their meeting. He eyed Yoongi. “What’re the updates?”The secretary folded his arms. “I approached Hopper and the companies involved. On the condition that we would drop the charges against them, they’d given us information on the sellers’ identities.” He was referring to the fiasco which’d happened about two months ago - when some smaller companies had illegally bought advance shares in V Inc following the information leak of the company’s acquisition of Big Leap.Yoongi continued, “The sellers are all individuals - mostly online gamblers who were in a fix. They got the information from an unidentifiable user - the mastermind behind this. He contacted them via anonymous channels and got them to resell the information.”Crossing to the minibar for a drink, Jungkook said, “From what we’ve gathered so far, we know that the mastermind – let’s assume it’s a ‘he’ for now – he’s smart, cunning and meticulous, a seasoned hacker. He never uses the same IP address each time he hacks into our system and acts fast.”“He knows how to plant misleading bugs and covers his tracks well,” Taehyung said, moving to stand before the window. The unobstructed view of the city below allowed him to think more objectively. “He doesn’t sell our information to the buyer directly. Instead, he sells them to a third parties who don’t know better, and then entices them to resell it to the companies. He plans ahead, mindful not to blow up his cover even if he has to share his profits. My hunch is that he’s someone in our company.”“He’s been lying low these days,” Yoongi said. “Either his problems are solved or he’s distracted by something else. He has yet to fall for any of the traps we’ve set.”“We cast a wider net and continue luring him,” Taehyung said.“There’s something else you need to know.” Yoongi paused, milling his words before he continued, “IT uncovered an external user remote accessing one of our computers last night. It was Jimin’s PC – logged in externally using his credentials to steal information. Couldn’t trace the location though.”Taehyung swivelled and darted a sharp eye at Yoongi. “That boy can’t even hurt a fly.”  There was no way it could be Jimin, for the boy had been naked, writhing with pain and pleasure beneath him last night.Yoongi nodded. “It seems dodgy to me too. Could it be the same mastermind looking for a scapegoat?”Jungkook drank from his can, unruffled. “If it’s the same mastermind who hacked into Jimin’s PC, then he did a rather sloppy job this time. It’s like deliberately leading us to pin the blame on Jimin. An obvious blame game which lacks conviction, but enough for the board to dismiss Jimin.”“Unless that bastard has other motives, or that Jimin had unwittingly stepped on his toes,” Taehyung murmured, icy violence glazing his voice.He was aware that Jimin was close to Chen and Tao at the workplace. Occasionally, Heechul - the self-proclaimed diva from HR would pop by his work station to say hello. So far, nothing negative about Jimin in terms of his work performance and attitude had reached Taehyung’s ears.He shifted his gaze between Jungkook and Yoongi, “Did you notice anything unusual with Jimin at work recently? Has anyone been particularly unkind to him?”Yoongi folded his arms across his chest. “Everyone likes Jimin – at least it looks like it. He’s always offering to help people.”“It’s difficult to comprehend why anyone would want to hurt him,” Jungkook added quietly. “But being too nice has its downside too. People tend to take your kindness for granted or treat you like a pushover.”As Jungkook and Yoongi had adeptly voiced out Taehyung’s sentiments, he knew he would have to talk to Jimin soon on learning how to say ‘no’ to people.His fingers curled into dangerous fists. “I’m going to fry that bastard’s balls when we catch him.” ““Provided he’s got balls,” Jungkook paced about, needing to move while his mind worked. “I say we take a bigger lead, spread more false data– at board meetings, team discussions, you name it.”Taehyung agreed. “Let’s do that. Smart minds with twisted agenda won’t keep still for long. He will definitely strike soon.” Shoving aside temper in favour of logic, he said to Yoongi. “Have IT run remote audits on Jimin’s PC around the clock – for formality’s sake should HR and security pry into this.”“I’ll see to that,” Yoongi noted.A vibration in his pocket had Taehyung pulling out his phone.It was a text from the bank, notifying him that the first transaction had just been made on one of his cards – the one he’d supplied to Jimin. An aura of joy and sweetness infused Taehyung, melting his tension away.“He's just spent my money,” he mumbled to himself, smiling stupidly at his phone.He scowled when he noticed Jungkook and Yoongi fixing him with suspicious looks.“What.”Jungkook clasped his hands together. “Are you looking for another lover? Please adopt me if you are.” The sun was setting. Jimin waved and ran towards Taehyung, who was waiting for him at the sidewalk around V Inc’s building.Blissful relief was all Taehyung felt when he saw Jimin. Catching the boy around his waist, he dipped his head and gave him a quick, warm kiss. “I’ve wasted a day away from you.”Jimin chuckled, checked his watch. “I was only gone for like...oh, seven hours. Did you manage to settle your stuff?”“Everything’s fine now,” Taehyung said, for he’d already decided that Jimin didn’t need to worry. “Did you buy anything you like?”Grinning, Jimin waved two shopping bags before him. “I bought PJs for us, and a beanie for Hobi.”Mild puzzlement had Taehyung frowning. “That’s all? Did you get anything else?”“What else?” Jimin blinked. Raising on his toes, he whispered into Taehyung’s ear, “The PJs are matching ones.”Taehyung eyed him fondly. “Couple nightwear?”“Not really… it’s just you know, two identical looking PJs. But I suppose you could call it couple wear if you want to since the design and patterns are the same and the colours are also the same, so essentially, it’s – Ugh- I don’t know what I’m saying but yeah, couple wear.”Taehyung laughed, forever amused by Jimin’s incessant babbling. “What if I decided that I no longer want to wear anything when I sleep?”His comment caught Jimin’s off-guard, unleashing an attractive flush of beet-red in the boy’s cheeks. He murmured, “You should… in case there’s a fire.”Taehyung flicked Jimin’s nose with the tip of his finger. “Point noted, Mr. Park.”Linking arms, they crossed the street to the Italian restaurant at which he had made dinner reservations.*Chen stood at a hidden corner, secretly watching the pair. He seethed with death-defying jealousy at their close physical contact and exchange of laughter, no doubt revelling in something oh-so-funny.No wonder he couldn’t make Park Jimin his. If competition was Kim Taehyung, the stakes had to be raised.But wicked glee had Chen gloating, at how clueless the founder of V Inc and his team were. That after all these weeks, they still didn’t know he was the mastermind behind the insider trading, the genius behind the hacking. It proved how arrogant the rich and powerful could be.But with his gambling debts resolved, Chen was free side track and pursue his latest project - Park Jimin.I’m not a stalker, Chen told himself.Of his history with men, Park Jimin was the only kind that flustered and bewildered him. He’d always been able to read his men, since he only targeted the submissive types; docile lambs who relished surrendering all control to him.That was until Park Jimin came along.  Chen was still figuring out a way to get to him. His observations concluded that Park Jimin was tame by nature, but not a total submissive. Compliant, yet free-spirited with a mind of his own. He was a sweet mystery Chen desperately wanted to unravel and possess.Chen’d swore with blood, since the day Park Jimin’d introduced himself on his first day of work, that he would make Park Jimin his. Fuck, he’d never wanted someone so badly in his entire life.And he was getting tired of Park Jimin’s games - smiling and flirting with him one moment, and then leaving him baffled the next. Just when he thought he was getting close to him, he would brush him off. Like just now, Jimin had so readily paid the bill for him and even had lunch with him (Wow, what a progress!). Chen’d been about to suggest an evening movie date when a phone call took Jimin away and he’d to leave.How was he supposed to know Park Jimin’s feelings when the boy was so fucking nice to everyone?Maybe Park Jimin wanted to make him jealous, Chen snickered. But he’d had enough of being Mr. Nice Guy to Park Jimin. And Jimin’s niceness to anyone but him was getting intolerable. It was about time Park Jimin learned who was boss. And Chen would show him why he was meant to be his.Aiming an imaginary gun at Kim Taehyung’s back, Chen’s lips stretched back from his teeth into a whispering snarl. “Bang.”+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

A week later, Taehyung was getting himself ready for work when a text from Jin had him frowning. Jin wanted to meet him. To talk ‘about things’.What was there to talk about?It was clear that their relationship had disintegrated to a point where they would simply disagree with each other.Did Jin want to talk about what Namjoon had done to Jimin? Defend him with excuses again like he always did? Or did he want to talk about how well he had been doing ever since their breakup? But hadn’t that been obvious when he had chosen Namjoon over him?Even now, a tightness would still squash Taehyung’s chest whenever his mind wandered to Jin. But that nasty feeling must be bitterness, betrayal. It couldn’t be love.Was he still in love with Jin? The question haunted him.If he wasn’t, at which point had he stopped loving Jin? How did one determine the moment when feelings for someone cease to exist?Had he stopped loving Jin when he’d found out that he was seeing Namjoon behind his back? Or had it been when the both of them had dropped down on their knees to beg for his forgiveness?Let the both of them continue begging then, Taehyung decided. His hatred was the same, if not stronger than his love (if he still had any left).After all, love was a pretty useless emotion. It had made Taehyung desire things beyond his reach. It had held him prisoner, caged and tortured him. And Taehyung didn’t want to be held captive anymore.He’d rather be the captor.As he left his house and walked towards his car where Yoongi was waiting, another buzz from his phone interrupted his dark thoughts. It was a text from Jimin this time, with an image.
‘Good morning, Taehyung! Sending you a helicopter to bring all the sunshine to you ^o^’

The message put a fond smile on Taehyung’s face. A special kind of warmth, which only Jimin was capable of giving him these days filled his heart. Like sunshine over meadows.The answer was clear.One should focus on things that promised a better outcome - one where he wouldn’t spiral into the vertices of agony and mistrust.Park Jimin was his sunshine, Taehyung hoped. ***After dinner on Thursday evening, Jimin and Hoseok huddled around the coffee table, indulging in some quiet BFF time.While Hoseok was putting together a new Song Joongki scrapbook, Jimin busied himself with looking up bento ideas on his phone.“How about these? Which one do you think he’ll like?” Jimin asked, showing his phone to Hoseok.Pausing the scissors, Hoseok squinted at the bentos on the screen. “The Hello Kitty ones are cute. Taehyung should like whatever you make. I’ll go cotton candies if Yoongi were to make me bentos.”“Hmmm…” Jimin scribbled notes on his notebook. “They look a little too cute for Taehyung though. Maybe I should just focus on the ingredients.”“Honestly Chimmy, of all the years we’ve known each other, I never even get a handmade rice ball from you,” Hoseok complained, meticulously cutting along the outline of Song Joongki from a magazine page. “Taehyung is one lucky shit.”Jimin gave him a bemused grin. “Didn’t I used to pack food from home for you? I had also made cupcakes for you.”“But not with as much dedication as you’re putting in now. I don’t remember getting a Pikachu rice ball or a Mickey mouse cupcake from you. It makes me wonder if Taehyung and you are for real.”Jimin avoided Hoseok’s eyes, sure his cheeks were burning like hot geyser.
Oh no.
“Wait a minute.” Hoseok frowned at Jimin’s reaction. The next instant had him slamming his scissors on the table, effectively snipping off Joongki’s head. “No wonder you’ve been acting weird ever since you returned! You had sex with him, right? Right!”“Hobi, I…”“How did it happen?” Hoseok demanded.Jimin lowered his chin, as though he was being called out of the classroom by the discipline master. His voice came out feeble. “Last Saturday… After he saved me from his father, we had dinner. We had a long talk after that…and then it sort of happened.”Hoseok pinned him a betrayed look. “And you weren’t planning to tell me.”“I was going to tell you soon.”“How did it feel?”“What do you mean?”“Did you like being held by him?”I didn’t want him to stop. When their bodies had joined, all Jimin could feel was Taehyung’s warmth branding him.Reading the answer on Jimin’s face, Hoseok exhaled deeply. “You know he’s just a client, right?”Yet in those moments with Taehyung, Jimin hadn’t felt like he was being treated like a sex object. His connection with Taehyung had felt real, like they were a couple in a normal romantic relationship. Like he was meant to be Taehyung’s, to be loved and treasured by him.It had been Taehyung, and he was enough reason why it had felt meaningful for Jimin.He chewed his lower lip. “I don’t wish to talk about something so personal.”With his frown deepening, Hoseok said, “We had an agreement when you first took on this job – that you would hide no secrets from me. We’re supposed to solve any problem together.”“I don’t think there’s one, and I thought you approved of Taehyung. You always tell me we should be courageous and go after what we want.”Hoseok sighed, exasperation joining concern. “That was before his brother took you away. I still can’t forgive myself for not going with you last week. Imagine what would’ve happened if Taehyung hadn’t returned earlier.” Hoseok blew air through his cheeks, clearly angrier at himself. “There’s something going on with his family. His father doesn’t approve of you. It’s ridiculous that you had to bear the brunt.”“Nothing happened to me,” Jimin said quietly. “It’s been a hard time for Taehyung too. He’s been through a lot.”“As if you weren’t. We don’t even know how he feels about you. What if he decides to terminate the contract one day and move on to a real relationship with someone else? Where does that leave you?”Hoseok’s words sank bitterly into Jimin’s heart. Between them, Hoseok was always the go-getter, also the more practical one.Jimin’s shoulders slumped. “I know, I know. What I’m having with Taehyung is not real. I know. A rich, handsome and talented man like him would never fall for someone so ordinary like me. You don’t need to remind me of the truth.” Hoseok’s wounded expression looked like a puppy which’d been kicked in its stomach. “That’s not what I mean, Chimmy. Know what? We should call this arrangement off before you fall deeper.” He started for the phone. “We can think of some other ways to raise money.”“No!” Jimin shot up to his feet, his sudden outburst startling Hoseok. He crossed to the window, looked out at the night street. His eyes caught a dark figure near a tree but it disappeared the next instant when he blinked.Gosh, he must be too worked up now that he was seeing things.He needed to calm down, stop his thoughts from racing further.
Think, think, think.
“Jimin ah…” Hoseok called out after a while, guilt softening his voice.Staring at the night view outside, Jimin muttered, “You once told me that falling in love is like sunshine and cotton candies, as though you and that person are the only ones who matter. You smile a lot when you are together with him. You miss him when he’s not around. But even with Kai, I didn’t feel those things... Until Taehyung, I’ve never felt so special before with anyone else. I still don’t know what these feelings are and where they’ll lead me to, but I want to figure them out myself. Can you let me do that?”Hoseok came over to his side. “Which is why I don’t want you to get hurt as well. Getting dump sucks, more so if real feelings are involved.”The shadow that clouded Hoseok’s eyes was indication that his friend was recalling his own failed relationships in the past.Guilt grinded Jimin. “I’m sorry for not telling you earlier.”Standing beside Jimin, Hoseok put his arms around his shoulders. “Sorry back, I was being too bitchy. It’s just that you always try to solve things by yourself. It makes me worry when you’re not telling me things.”Jimin tilted his head to lean on Hoseok’s shoulders. “I know you mean well. It’s just… I need time.”“Okay, we’ll take this one step at a time but you’re not going to hide things from me again, understand?”Easing away from Hoseok, Jimin smiled. “So, are you going to help me with the bentos?”Hoseok squeezed Jimin’s cheeks between his palms. “Why not? A good way to win a man’s heart is through his stomach. Project Bento it shall be.”***With Project Bento underway, Jimin smiled his way to work the next morning.Life had been sailing splendidly for him these days, as though he was walking on sunshine and rainbows.At work, Jimin didn’t mind the regular interruptions to answer phone calls, a colleague’s plea for advice on graphic designs, and the occasional small chats with Chen, whose work station was beside his.After all, being useful to people made Jimin happy. If he could be of help, why not?A few game testing assignments kept Jimin in the office during the lunch hour. He was hoping to complete the assignments so he could enjoy his weekend with Taehyung in peace, without having to think about work.“Chen, do you know how this function works? I can’t seem to get the character to go past the walls,” Jimin stared at his screen, figuring out the prototype he was testing.Chen, who’d decided not to go out for lunch, rolled his chair closer to Jimin. Peering at Jimin’s screen, he said, “You need to enter the C5 code first.” He reached a hand over Jimin’s desk and tapped on the keyboard. “Then, you click on the diamond icon.”“This?” Jimin moved his mouse, navigating the cursor over a few icons on the screen. “Or this?”“No, not this,” Chen’s voice rumbled in his ear. He placed his hand on Jimin’s, moving the mouse together. “You click this diamond icon to get lives, and then this treasure chest to spin the coins.”“Ah… it works now. Thanks, this is really helpful-” Jimin turned his head to grin and found Chen’s face close to his. Their lips bumped in an accidental kiss.“I’m sorry!” Jimin gasped and shoved back in his chair. Whirling backwards, he almost tipped over but Chen dragged him back by the armrests.“Are you okay?” Chen watched him with concern.Pressing his fingers against his lips, Jimin freaked out with a jolt of embarrassment. “I’m so sorry for that. I-I wasn’t aware that you were just beside me.”Chen half-smiled. “No worries. I’m sorry for startling you.”“No-no, it’s me. I should’ve been more careful-”Whatever he’d wanted to say was abruptly severed off as Taehyung thundered by and jerked him off his chair.“Wait-Taehyung- what is it-”The alpha hauled Jimin away by his elbow in a death grip. Jimin nearly tripped on his legs as they storm-swept down the walkway. A handful of co-workers who’d stayed back during the lunch hour looked up from their work stations. They dropped their heads back to work when Taehyung shot them a warning glare.Stopping before the janitor’s closet at a quiet corner, Taehyung yanked the door opened and shoved Jimin inside before stepping in.  He snapped the door shut and whirled on Jimin with a livid look.“What the fuck just happened?”Jimin’s heart pulsed uncomfortably fast, still comprehending the situation. “Err…you just dragged me out of my chair and threw us into a closet?”Now Taehyung looked like he wanted to bash someone up. He fumed, gripping onto whatever little patience he’d left. “I’m referring to you and Chen.”“Chen and I?” Jimin pointed at himself, confused. “He was showing me how to navigate a prototype we’re working on.”“He touched you. You kissed him.” Taehyung hissed through gritted teeth.Jimin flinched with embarrassment. “It was an accident.”“Not only did that idiot touch you. He was moving too close to you.”When Jimin gave him another confused look, Taehyung jabbed an angry finger towards his hand. “Your hand. He touched your hand, goddammit Jimin.”“Chen was just showing me how to use the program. I kissed him by accident. We were working, and then we kissed-but of course it was by accident.”His response was the last click that detonated Taehyung’s full temper. The alpha kicked a carton of cleaning products, so hard that it tipped over and sent its bottles tumbling over nosily. Jimin bumped back in fright, knocking over a mop.Taehyung took a step forward, the toes of his shoes bumping into Jimin’s.Suddenly the closet felt even smaller, the space closing in.“Please don’t murder me,” Jimin wheezed. He’d meant it as a joke but Taehyung wasn’t appeased by it.The alpha’s tone was aggressive. “Workplace harassment is against HR policy. I’ll have him dismissed.”Real panic kicked in. “Don’t do that! This is a misunderstanding.”Chen aka Mr. Nice Guy harassing him? The idea was absurd enough that Jimin cringed inwardly. His mind spun with a vague memory that there’d been a similar conversation with Taehyung. Whenever Jimin mentioned Chen, Taehyung would have a sour expression on his face as if he was been forced to eat his most hated pork bellies.  For reasons Jimin couldn’t comprehend, Taehyung didn’t seem to like Chen.  Was it because of his natural animosity towards very nice guys?“You’re totally clueless,” Taehyung bit out. “There’s no point continuing this conversation.” He started for the door, no doubt poised for a murder spree.But being small in size gave Jimin the advantage of speed and agility in manoeuvring small spaces. He leapt over the toppled bottles, squeezed past Taehyung and blocked the exit.“Get off,” Taehyung growled.Jimin backed against the door with outstretched arms. “Listen to me, please. Can’t you just drop it?”Taehyung shook his head in disbelief. “That idiot was trying to get close to you. As far as I’m concerned, I have the right to ensure the safety and well-being of my employees.”“If you’re dismissing Chen for sexual harassment, you would need to go through proper HR procedures. There’ll be an investigation, and things are bound to turn ugly.”“I’m only pretty when it comes to the face.”“I’ll be questioned too and-”“I can be the witness,” Taehyung fired back. “Nobody dares question me.”“I was the one who kissed him.” Jimin pointed out. He quickly corrected when Taehyung’s nostrils flared. “By accident, of course. But going by your logic, I could also be accused of sexual harassment. If you defend me to go against Chen, people would be pointing fingers at you for taking sides.”“I don’t care what people think of me.”“But I do,” Jimin said, with hurt. “Don’t blow up the matter because of me, please.” I don’t want to be your liability.His pleading tone made Taehyung re-consider the situation. The alpha was no doubt still seething with rage, but at least thinking more objectively now.With Taehyung stewing silently, Jimin felt like Dr. Strange facing an eternity of battles with Dormammu.Taehyung said at last, “You need to learn how to protect yourself.”
Oh, so it was his – Park Jimin’s problem now.
But since Jimin planned to live a long life and didn’t wish to see Taehyung erupting into full Hulk-mode, he simply lowered his head. “Okay, I’ll be careful next time.”  When Taehyung said nothing, Jimin pulled at his hand. He whined like a child wanting to go to the playground. “Aww…come on, don’t be angry anymore. Please-please-please…”Taehyung’s face remained set in firm lines but Jimin saw a hint of amusement in those dark eyes.The alpha gritted his teeth. “Don’t get cute with me.”Jimin bounced back playfully. “You want cute? Cute it shall be then.”Palms outstretched before him, he made cute noises as he blew out imaginary hearts at Taehyung. “Ppoo! Ppaa! Ppoo! Ppoop!”

A brief smile flickered across Taehyung’s lips. Still mad. Just not so mad anymore.Looping his arms around Jimin, Taehyung tugged him close. He rested his cheek on Jimin’s head. “If only I could keep you inside my pocket.”Jimin chuckled. “I’m not a Pokémon, you know.”They pulled apart when his stomach rumbled.Taehyung fussed. “You haven't had lunch.”“Tao’s gone out to get takeaways for us.”But Jimin let Taehyung dragged him to the café downstairs for late lunch.**Later that evening, Taehyung brought Jimin to a Japanese restaurant, where they served the most fabulous Kobe beef steak in town. A smile pulled at the corners of his lips as he watched Jimin enjoyed the scrumptious meal.Over the course of dinner, Jimin also shared with Taehyung the assignments which he’d completed and the little harmless jokes that went around the office.Happier than he’d been in a long time, Taehyung found solace and enjoyment in his conversations with Jimin.They returned to his house, showered and proceeded to the playroom.Sitting on the fluffy rug with his back against the sofa, Taehyung pulled Jimin down to sit in front of him. He wrapped his arms around Jimin’s waist and eased him back between his drawn-up legs.“Are we watching a movie?” Jimin glanced towards flat screen on the wall and back at Taehyung.“We’re collaborating with Netflix on an animation series,” Taehyung said, turning on the screen with the controller. “I’m showing you the demo version.”Jimin’s face glowed with anticipation. “Has anyone seen it yet?”“Just me and a couple others working on this project. You’re the first audience.”Taehyung could tell from Jimin’s smile that the boy was feeling special and encouraged.As Taehyung explained the rules, Jimin listened with attentive ears.“There are different paths the story can take, depending on the choice the viewer makes. As you watch, I want you to treat the character as yourself. When you make the choices, ask yourself what you want. Put yourself first.”“Would I affect the other characters?” Jimin asked.“Ignore them. I want you to focus on yourself.”“I’ll try.”As they sat watching the anime, Taehyung had his arms around Jimin, drawing him closer.Jimin’s full attention was on the show, pressing the controller to make choices at certain scenes. So engrossed was he that he became oblivious to Taehyung, who would occasionally sniff and play with his hair.Jimin, Taehyung had discovered, could get so absorbed with something that he would not notice what was going on around him.The screen changed to a scene where the main character – a sea creature - morphed into a handsome young man.“Woah, so what is he going to do next?” Jimin turned his curious face back at Taehyung. “Should he use the stone to save the land or keep it to protect the sea? What about the girl on land he’s fallen in love with? Will they end up together or will he return to the sea princess?”“So many questions.” Taehyung pinched Jimin’s chin. “You’ll have to continue watching to find out.”“I’ve to make the choices for him, right? You said there are four different endings – are they all happy endings?”Taehyung kiss him on his neck. “Tell me which ending you like best. We’ll make it canon in our marketing pitch to Netflix.”“It means I still have to find out myself,” Jimin pouted, returning to the screen.A while later, he whined again when the character arrived at another crossroad of choices. “I’m not sure if I’ve made the right choice. Does this mean he still have feelings for the sea princess? Then he shouldn’t’ve gotten involved with the girl on land.”Taehyung said nothing, leaving Jimin to ponder.But his insides roiled with disquiet, as Jimin’s questions had hit true to his circumstance.If Taehyung were a better person, he’d be a hundred percent truthful to Jimin about his own past. So far, he’d only allowed Jimin a glimpse of his past with certain parts shaded away. It was the half-truth and Taehyung wondered if half-truths were lies or not. Regardless, he couldn’t bear to reveal the whole truth, not if it would risk the boy leaving him.Because Taehyung couldn’t resist, he dipped his mouth into Jimin’s neck and smeared lazy kisses along the tender stretch. He grazed his tongue at the sensitive spot behind Jimin’s ear lobe. When there was no visible reaction, he sank his teeth into the delicate curve between Jimin’s neck and shoulder.Jimin’s body jerked with a harsh intake of breath.“Taehyung…. I can’t concentrate if you do this.” Jimin’s voice was shaky, a sign that his body was getting roused by his seduction.“Multitask,” Taehyung murmured. His hand tipped Jimin’s face to his and brought their lips together. Kissing him, he pulled the controller away from Jimin’s hand and snaked his hands underneath his shirt.Jimin’s breath hitched, stumbled over words. “So… the main character seems to have issues with- ahhh-” his body spasmed when Taehyung’s hands rubbed on his nipples.Taehyung loved how Jimin’s inhibitions would always reset itself each time after they’d made love. The next time when they had sex again, Taehyung would have to take Jimin through the course again, coax him to open up to intimacy.But right now, he had a piercing urge to forsake gentleness and tear at the Jimin’s clothes. He wanted to ravage him.“I want you naked,” Taehyung growled, shifting Jimin to face him.Following his lead, Jimin lifted his arms and let Taehyung pulled his shirt up.  Soon, their clothes were stripped off their bodies and tossed in a pile on the floor.Naked, they sat facing each other, with their knees drawn up and legs apart. Taehyung’s erection was already standing at full attention, poised for penetration. He smiled at Jimin’s baulking face, heard the boy mumbled a “that’s quick” to himself.His hand stretched for the tube of lube that’d rolled out of his pants pocket when he was stripping.“Do you always bring that with you?” Jimin asked quizzically.“Only when you are around. Come closer.”Obeying, Jimin scooted closer to him, putting his feet over Taehyung’s hips.He handed the bottle of lube to Jimin. “Do it.”Jimin shot him a confused blink, which was quickly replaced with understanding. Flipping open the cap, Jimin squeezed a few drops onto his palms and started rubbing the liquid onto Taehyung’s cock to lubricate him.When Jimin was done, Taehyung shifted him again, such that Jimin was straddling him.He glided his hands down Jimin’s sides, and cupped his ass cheeks.The intimacy of the new position heated Jimin’s face.Taehyung looked into those shy, dreamy eyes.His gaze, no doubt dark and wanting, continued to hold Jimin captive. “I go mad when I see another man touching you.”Jimin faltered. “I-”Without giving him a chance to finish, Taehyung positioned Jimin above his erection. The boy whimpered a moan when Taehyung’s swelling cock wiggled and caressed his sensitive entrance.“Relax, or it won’t open up,” Taehyung coaxed.“I can do it,” Jimin breathed, initiating a small push downward despite his apprehension.A deep-throated groan rumbled in Taehyung’s throat as Jimin’s hole yawned opened for him. It clamped around his length, swallowing his cock slowly.As Jimin went further in, his hands gripping on Taehyung’s shoulders tightened.When he was halfway in, Taehyung squeezed Jimin’s ass cheeks and clamped him down in a sudden yank.“Taehyung!” A startled cry whipped out from Jimin as his cheeks slammed against the alpha’s balls. Taehyung’s full length lodged inside his inner walls in an expanding tear.Taehyung began moving leisurely. He bounced Jimin in an up-down motion. The boy shuddered for a beat, then relaxed.As Jimin rode on, his soft moaning filled the air like lullabies of nightingales. “This is… good.”“Carry on, Mochi,” Taehyung said, and began bouncing him harder.Jimin wrapped his hands around Taehyung’s head, bringing the alpha to his neck. As Jimin continued riding him, Taehyung sucked at his throat and planted gentle bites on his neck.He knew Jimin had a desire to please him. And a sense of duty to understand his needs and wants. His fingers dug deeper into his Jimin’s butt to secure him as he rode on, branding red marks on his supple cheeks. Jimin’s baby soft skin would bruise no matter how much Taehyung was controlling his vague sense of self-preservation.That was it, Taehyung thought. He wouldn’t push for more. He would let Jimin get used to him bit by bit, like piecing a puzzle.As if Jimin understood his intentions, he gasped between short breathes, “Don’t hold back because of me.”Taehyung warned, “Jimin, don’t.”But determination glazed Jimin’s eyes. He was now riding Taehyung on his own accord, drawing his beast out. His soft, supple cheeks beat the toned muscles of Taehyung’s thighs as he bounced.Jimin’s voice came out soft, but it was as determined as his eyes. “I can bear it if it’s you… no one else but only you.”His words undid Taehyung. He lost his mind next when Jimin made an erotic mewling sound.Like shark’s teeth, they snapped off the chain restraining Taehyung.The next instant had him tackling and pinning Jimin onto the rug.His mouth dived into Jimin’s, ravening and depraved.Taehyung devoured, taking hungry swallows of Jimin’s heaving breaths until they turned to moans again. His hands roamed, staking greedy claims on every part of Jimin’s body.It was as though Jimin was made for him, specifically programmed to respond to him. The thought fuelled Taehyung with a fierce possessiveness he’d never felt in a long time.“You’ll come at the same time as me,” he growled.“Hmm-” Jimin moaned his agreement, already jerking his hand on his own cock as Taehyung continued plowing inside him. His other hand clung around Taehyung’s nape.“Don’t stop,” Jimin gasped into Taehyung’s mouth, sweeping tongues and sucking. “With you, I can..”His legs hooked around Taehyung’s middle, the angle knotting them tighter together.“As you wish,” Taehyung showed his ultimatum. He slammed into Jimin, felt the boy thrashing beneath him and his nails scraping his shoulders.Skins between them moist, warm and slippery. It was lovemaking at its peak, fucking away all sanity and inhibitions.So fucking good, Taehyung’s mind and body burned.The world was theirs to conquer.And Jimin was his to taste.To hold. To cherish.Jimin’s answering cry was all he needed to hear as they erupted together, spilling orgasms. Naked, Taehyung lay with his back on the rug.Snuggling against him, Jimin drew lazy circles on his chest. “I know which ending I like,” he said.“What ending?” Taehyung looked down to find Jimin gazing up at him.Jimin grinned, his monolid eyes like crescents. “The anime you showed me just now. I would choose an ending where he ends up with the one he loves. I want him to be happy.”It took seconds for understanding to sink in. “You didn’t treat him as yourself. Did you?”Jimin seemed unaware of the frost that’d layered Taehyung’s voice. He merrily replied, “That’s not important. I only want him to be happy.”With a contented sigh, he rubbed his cheek against Taehyung’s chest.Taehyung’s insides stilled, as if someone had dunked him into an icy lake.
Who did he love?
He sat blot up, surprising Jimin.“Is anything the matter?” Jimin asked.Without answering, Taehyung moved to pick up his clothes and started putting them on.“Taehyung…”Because he couldn’t tolerate the worry that’d crept into Jimin’s voice, he glanced back briefly.The boy was sitting naked on the rug with his knees drawn up, a lost look on his face.“I’m starving,” Taehyung lied. “Let’s go to the kitchen.”+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

In the course of the new week, Taehyung gave Jimin an iPad downloaded with reading materials; journals and articles featuring a spectrum of topics on business management, negotiation tactics and self-enrichment.They were topics that Jimin tend to shy away from because they taunted his inner artistic creativity and bored him to tears.“Do I really have to read them?” Jimin stared at a page on the iPad screen. His eyes were swimming at the chunky paragraphs of ant-sized words. Instinctively, he pressed the side-button so that the screen faded to black.Sitting behind his desk, Taehyung regarded him with doting eyes. “These are useful resources for the kind of work we do. You can use them as references for market profiling and projects.”“Aren’t these more for the type of work you do?”“There are no ‘you’ and ‘me’ in the business world – only ‘us’. I want you to start taking a more global viewpoint when you do things. I’ll be bringing you with me to client meetings and a few networking functions. It’s a good opportunity to strengthen your skills and self-confidence.”Jimin pursed his lips in thought, trying to understand Taehyung’s intentions.Power and grace sat perfectly on the alpha’s shoulders, making clear that conquering the business world and beckoning everything under his feet were as easy as breathing air to him. Jimin always forgot that business-Taehyung wasn’t domestic-Taehyung or bedroom-Taehyung.The many faces of Kim Taehyung flummoxed Jimin when he’d least expected it.“What about my current work?” Jimin asked.“You’ll still be in charge of a few programming projects. Tao’ll take some off your load, so you have time to attend meetings and events with me.”Jimin hugged the iPad in front of him. He thought he’d mentioned to Taehyung before that he liked what he’d been doing so far. “Is there a reason for… this change in job scope? Perhaps due to resource requirements?”“You tend to undervalue yourself, Jimin. I want to show you what you’re capable of.”Jimin looked down, uncomfortably aware that he was lacking in areas where Taehyung exceled.At any given day, Jimin would still choose the hectic of working behind the scenes. He thrived on being unseen, not in the limelight. The thought of sitting at negotiation tables and mingling with clients made his head spin. Smooth business talk wasn’t his strength.Reading Jimin’s unease, Taehyung got to his feet and came over to him.He stroked Jimin’s arm. “You’re more than what you think. But it’s your choice to make.”“What if I screwed up again? It’s millions of dollars we’re talking about.”Worry creased Jimin’s brows, and Taehyung smoothed it out with the pad of his thumb. “You haven’t started and you’re already questioning your abilities. Remember. Everyone is in this together, you’re not alone. You can always come to me - or if I’m not round – Jungkook if you need answers.”Although Taehyung wasn’t pushy, his expectant gaze ignited a light in Jimin. He didn’t want disappoint Taehyung. “Okay, I’ll try.”The alpha’s lips curved with pride. “That’s the spirit. Once you’re in, go all the way and don’t look back. Even if it fails, fail better.”Jimin cringed. He didn’t even want to think about failing. “I’ll give my best.”The alpha flicked his nose affectionately. “You can ask for something as a reward.”“Reward?” Jimin’s eyes brightened with surprise. “But I haven’t even completed the job.”“I advocate positive reinforcement and morale boosters, where possible.”Jimin’s mind worked fast and Project Bento yelled and waved for his attention.He said to Taehyung, “Deal. I want you for lunch this Friday.”The alpha’s brows winged up. “You want to eat me on Friday. Are you going to marinate me beforehand?”Jimin’s cheeks heated at Taehyung’s teasing. “I mean, have lunch with me this Friday. You don’t have to book a place. Leave it to me.”Taehyung nodded. “I see, a surprise.”“Yes, just give me your time.”“Deal.” Taehyung leaned in and pecked him on the lips.Jimin practically danced his way out of the office. It was all the motivation he needed to start working on his new projects, be it the work assignments given by Taehyung or his personal Project Bento.*** The following afternoon, Jimin asked Jungkook out for lunch.When he’d suggested lunch, he had meant to settle at a nearby cafeteria or deli.But to Jimin’s surprise, Jungkook gleefully drove him out in his Audi to an upscale area dotted with fine dining establishments. They settled for a fancy French place where servers in black-tie took your coats, pulled out your chair for you and served sparkling water at exorbitant prices.“It’s my treat. Feel free to order what you like,” Jimin said cheerfully to Jungkook. Inwardly, he was groaning at the sky-high prices on the menu. Like Taehyung, Jungkook had an expensive palate and taste for gourmet food.Jungkook peered at him over his menu, looking impressed. “A treat from Jimin. I’m honoured.” He signalled for the waitress when they were ready to order.Jungkook chatted up with the waitress, who addressed him by his last name. It was clear that he had been here before and was familiar with the people.“Their Herdwick lamb is the best,” Jungkook recommended to Jimin as the waitress took his order.“I’ll just have a garden salad,” Jimin blurted out, earning a judging look from Jungkook. “I’m not that hungry actually.”Jungkook turned to the waitress with a polished smile. “Make it two set of Herwick lambs instead, darling. For starters, we’ll have avocado with king prawns to share. And lemonade parfait for deserts, to be served later.”Oh no, Jimin prayed he’d brought enough cash.Blushing at Jungkook’s charm, the waitress confirmed their orders, collected the menus and left. It made Jimin wonder if Jungkook secretly delighted in making ladies’ knees go weak.“Out with it.” Jungkook said, spreading the napkin on his knees. “You need something from me, right?”Nothing could ever escape the lawyer’s sharp-eyed observations. Squirming in his chair, Jimin swallowed and begun, “I’m helping Taehyung to put up a business proposal for Netflix. There are some parts which I may need your input.”“You don’t have to buy me lunch for this, you know,” Jungkook murmured. “My office door is always open.”“It’s a lot of questions, and I thought treating you to a meal is the least I could do.”“Have you ever thought that it might be easier if you approach Taehyung directly?”Jimin wrung his hands under the table. “I don’t really wish to trouble him, not now when I’m still gathering data. I was hoping to come up with a decent draft before showing it to him.”“I see…” Jungkook clicked his tongue. “You want to give Taetae a good impression of your first proposal pitch.” He let out a melodramatic sigh. “Now, I feel so cheated. I thought you asked me out for lunch because we’re friends.”“Of course we’re friends,” Jimin exclaimed, only for Jungkook to grinned back at him. “It’s just that I’ve got many questions on the market and audience profiling. I feel bad for imposing on you.”“Taehyung doesn’t expect a perfect score from you,” Jungkook assured, as though sensing Jimin’s doubts.“I want to do this properly, and make it right.”The waitress came over with the soups and appetiser and set them on the table.“Seems like Taehyung’s hit the jackpot with you,” Jungkook said, a grin hovering over his lips.“How was he like before?” Jimin asked when the waitress left.“Just work, and then moping around when he thought nobody’s looking,” Jungkook said, slipping a roll of bread onto Jimin’s plate before helping himself. “Gotta cut him some slack though - the past couple years hadn’t been easy for him.”“Did he get any support from anyone else, other than you?” When Jungkook angled his head with an inquisitive gaze, Jimin added, “I mean…did any of his lovers in the past lent him support? How were they like?”It was a million-dollar question that’d been bugging Jimin for some time. He’d wanted to ask Taehyung, but dared not do so.Jungkook took a spoonful of his pumpkin soup, silently contemplating.It was a while later when his eyes met Jimin as he spoke, “I’m not an expert with Taehyung’s past relationships. I never met most of his lovers anyway. But if you want to know, I can tell that Taehyung feels special whenever he’s with you. I’ve never seen him look so alive for a long time.”“Really?” Jimin said, doubtful that Taehyung’s good mood had anything to do with him. “Maybe the company’s been doing well, especially this quarter. Taehyung’s really high up there. I have a lot of catching up to do to match his level of competence.”Jungkook’s cheery demeanour took on a firmer note. “You’re already acing at that. In any case, you shouldn’t compare yourself with anyone else. Just be yourself - that’s what makes you precious to people who like you. I’m sure Taehyung would’ve told you the same thing.”“That’s… comforting to know,” Jimin said.“You have my full support. Let’s show him what we’ve got.”  Jungkook winked. “And this meal’s on me.”When Jimin opened his mouth to object, Jungkook said, “If you want to repay me, how about spending an evening at the arcade with me?”“Okay,” Jimin nodded. “I will pay for the arcade.”“Sure, only if you can win all the games.” Jungkook lifted his chin smugly. He scooped a huge grilled king prawn and placed it on Jimin’s plate. “To Jimin, may you raise our dear Taetae’s soul!”Jimin returned him a grateful smile, but deep inside he wasn’t confident that he was the right person Taehyung needed.Still, he would try his best.*** The apartment was always empty at this time of the day.Once you had figured out its residents’ habits and schedules, it didn’t take much effort to get inside. Tampering with locks, moreover a flimsy one such as this was chicken feet to Chen.As quiet as a mouse, he slipped inside the two-room apartment. Even in the afternoon, the secluded neighbourhood had very few residents in sight.  It was double blessing for Chen when he’d found out from realtors over a phone call that only two units on this floor were occupied. It made breaking into the house so much easier.Hands in pockets, Chen padded around the place, looking and exploring.  There was a cosy living area with a small TV set; a kitchen modest enough for single men; a bedroom where a queen-sized bed took up most of the space; and a bathroom so tiny that would have one knocking elbows against the walls and sink.The smallness of the place irked Chen, but what disgusted him the most were the posters of some male Korean celebrity. No doubt they belonged to Park Jimin’s roommate, and likely also his friend.His Park Jimin would never fanboy over some male. His Park Jimin knew how to control his testosterones.His Park Jimin would only have eyes for him.So, this was the place where Jimin slept when he wasn’t staying at Taehyung’s. Chen had discovered that Jimin stayed here from Tuesdays to Thursdays. He assumed that the rest of Jimin’s days belonged to Taehyung. It wasn’t worth the risk stalking Jimin when Taehyung was with him. Taehyung was too alert, and would’ve sensed someone following them.In any case, all of Park Jimin’s days and nights would belong to Chen. Soon.As he looked around, he snapped photos of the place with his phone. He smiled at a photograph on the shelf, of a younger Park Jimin on his graduation day.He then proceeded to the closet, the furniture which he’d been looking forward to the most.At least Jimin’s roommate did the right thing by acquiring a different fashion taste. It made it easy for Chen to identify the compartment in the closet that belonged to Jimin.His finger hooked up a Gucci boxers from a neat pile. Likely a gift from Kim Taehyung, he mused, then almost slammed the closet door with irritation.Holding the boxers, Chen squashed the fabric into his face and inhaled deeply. The scent of Jimin filled his nostrils, intoxicated his mind.He jammed his other hand into his pants, grabbed and stroked his length.Closing his eyes, Chen’s mind fabricated an image of Jimin and started jerking himself off.Doing it in Jimin’s room heightened his senses. His breath turned into gratifying grunts. Soon, it would be Park Jimin doing him.He screamed into the boxers as he came.While cleaning himself up in the bathroom later, Chen chuckled as he guessed the shampoo and bodywash which Jimin was using. The familiarity of the strawberry fragrance he’d smelt on Jimin’s hair thrilled him. He pocketed a small sample bottle.Lunch time was almost over by the time he was done.Time to return to the office.He jammed the Gucci boxers into his jacket pocket. As he couldn’t help it, he took another pair from the closet. Always good to have a spare.As noiselessly as he’d come, Chen slipped through the front door, put the lock back in place.Whistling a tune, he jogged down the stairs and hailed a cab at the roadside.***** “Jimin, pay attention!” Jungkook hollered from the other side.From his peripheral vision, Taehyung caught Jimin jumped back with panic as his player was been squashed by zombies. He chuckled at the boy’s clumsiness.It was evening after work, when Jungkook had suggested hanging out at the arcade.“I’m sorry, Taehyung.” Jimin pouted, shoulders slumping as he put down his gun. He continued eyeing the battle taking place on the screen.“Don’t worry, I’ve got this,” Taehyung said loudly over the blasting noises of the arcade as his focus remained on the screen. He was currently triumphing on a shooting spree, confident that Jungkook would not get ahead of them by too much.“Watch your back, Taetae!” came Jungkook’s warning but Taehyung had already gunned down the male zombie who’d sneaked up behind his player.Normally, the huge score gap wouldn’t have happened if it were just Taehyung himself playing against Jungkook. He and his cousin had a natural affinity with games. When competing against each other, they would always end up in a draw or a single digit difference in scores.But the score this evening was 711 for Team Taehyung and 1,880 for Team Jungkook.All thanks to Park Jimin, who had joined Team Taehyung.The cousins had earlier come up with a game of scissors-paper-stone to decide who would play solo and who would pair up with Jimin. “The loser takes Jimin,” Jungkook had snorted jokingly.In the end, Taehyung had lost to Jungkook. On purpose. Although he’d acted nonchalant as Jimin came to his side, his inner self was secretly doing happy dances.“I’m telling you first that I’m a bad player,” Jimin had kept saying. Although the boy had given his best shot, he didn’t seem to be poised for violence.When the battles with zombies ended with Jungkook’s victory, they next explored the UFO machines section.“We used to catch them at the arcade near our school,” Jungkook remarked “Taehyung emptied out the machine and the owner had to bar us from playing.”“That’s so brilliant.” Jimin gaped at Taehyung as though he was a saviour sent by god.The alpha shrugged with manly pride. “Easy peasy stuff, those claws.”Jungkook was slotting tokens into a UFO machine of Pokémon dolls when Taehyung’s phone vibrated in his pocket.It was an anonymous number. “I’m taking call,” Taehyung excused himself and moved to the entrance where it was less noisy.“Hello,” he said into his phone.“Good evening, sir. Am I speaking to Mr. Kim Taehyung?”“Yes, speaking. You are?”“This is Yoon, calling from Citibank. There was a transition made using one of your supplementary cards. The vendor has requested clarification with our bank on some particulars. Is this a convenient time to talk?”As Taehyung listened on, his mood changed. “Can you give me more details of the mall where the card was used?”He made a few more calls after that. He was already aware that Jimin had made a transaction using his credit card.However, he hadn’t been aware that the purchases were for electronic appliances, which he now found out would be shipped to a local address. Although the staff over the phone only revealed the neighbourhood area where the products would be delivered, it was enough information for Taehyung to know that it wasn’t his address. Neither was it Jimin’s address since he stayed in another neighbourhood.What exactly, had Jimin not been telling him? For a brief moment, an unpleasant feeling clawed at him.But decency demanded Taehyung to cast aside any unwarranted suspicion.Trust was important, he kept grinding it into his brain. Jimin wasn’t obliged to share every nitty-gritty detail of his life with him anyway.Walking back into the arcade, Taehyung’s gaze settled on Jimin a short distance ahead. The boy was bouncing on his toes and cheering for Jungkook before the UFO machine. Deep in concentration, Jungkook steered the controls and the UFO claws dropped the toy into the collection hole. Celebratory cheers erupted and the two high-fived each other.Taehyung watched his cousin picked up the soft toy and handed it to a surprised Jimin.There was an innocence about Jimin which Taehyung found reassuring. He felt uncomplicated, safe whenever he was with Jimin. Still, feelings of uncertainty gnawed at the edge of his consciousness.Everything about Jimin tended to perplex him these days. The need to see himself through Jimin’s eyes was beginning to overwhelm him. He wondered if some chances were worth giving.Then, Jimin’s wandering eyes found him, and the boy’s smile widened.In that moment, Taehyung’s self-doubts disappeared like clouds opening up for the sun.Jogging to Taehyung’s side, Jimin looped the Pikachu soft toy with an arm before him. “We won this.”“Tough luck with Charwizard though.” Jungkook wrinkled his nose.Smiling at Taehyung, Jimin said, “We’re going to get some snacks and ice-cream from the kiosk. Do you want to come with us?”“Snacks and ice-cream.” His judging tone displayed his disapproval at the idea of junk food.“Come on, it’s good to treat yourself to something small once in a while,” Jimin sweet-talked.“Something small,” Taehyung smirked as he eyed Jimin up and down. The boy’s cheeks flushed pink.Jungkook rolled his eyes. “Seriously, the both of you have to stop flirting with each other in the public.”Brushing off Pikachu’s fur, Jimin mumbled in a soft voice. “I’m not… flirting.”“Let’s go,” Taehyung said with a sheepish smile.To annoy Jungkook and also because he couldn’t resist teasing Jimin, Taehyung dipped his head down and gave Jimin a playful kiss on his cheek.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

On Friday morning, the phone alarm sounded an hour earlier than usual. Jimin began his day in a flurry of kitchen activities. He cooked rice, boiled vegetables and grilled the chicken breast strips which he’d marinated the previous night. He also cut fanciful designs from seaweed sheets and rolled rice balls into cute shapes.The end products had him grinning with satisfaction. The two bentos he’d prepared held slightly different contents - Taehyung’s bento had more vegetables, while his was stuffed with rice balls and chicken. Inspecting Jimin’s work, Hoseok rubbed his hands enthusiastically. “If he doesn’t melt into goo at these, move to Plan B.”“Plan B?” Jimin asked, puzzled.“Give him a quickie after lunch - drag him to a secluded corner and snog him and tadah!-” Hoseok snapped his fingers. “-He’s all yours to manipulate.”Despite Jimin’s awareness of his friend’s forthcoming attitude when it came to chasing guys, he cringed at the idea. “That’s not how a relationship works. It takes two hands to clap, with two people working towards a common goal.”Hoseok clapped him on his shoulder. “You have to be proactive once in a while. It doesn’t hurt to be the one taking the initiative.”Jimin chuckled, wondering how nice it’d be if he had half of Hoseok’s courage. He wrapped the bento boxes with a nice cloth and packed them into a paper bag.“I’m off, Hobi. See you next week,” Jimin shouted his goodbyes as he slipped on his shoes and stole to the front door. Already, he was eagerly looking forward to lunch and the weekend with Taehyung.Standing at the front door, Hoseok made a heart shape with his arms and cheered, “I love you, Chimmy!”Jimin waved back at his friend. “I love you too, Hobi!” Thanks to TGIF, Friday mornings usually whizzed by and set people in a euphoric high. Soon, lunch hour arrived. Jimin hadn’t seen Taehyung for the whole morning. A shareholders meeting had locked the alpha away in the conference room since the moment he’d stepped into the office.Jimin’s phone buzzed.A text from Taehyung deflated his jolly mood like helium oozing out of a balloon. 
Taehyung:
Still held up in the meeting. Can’t meet you for lunch. See you this evening. Please, EAT.’
 Taehyung couldn’t meet him for lunch. It wasn’t usual for him to back out at the last minute – the alpha always kept to his promises. The meeting he was still caught up in must have been really important.But Jimin couldn’t help with the disappointment that pooled inside him. Shoulders sagging, he dragged his eyes to his drawer where the bentos were kept.“Shall we go for lunch?” The question from Chen had him looking up.Co-workers around them were leaving their work stations, engaging in a buzz of cheery conversations as they headed to the lobby.“Where’s Tao?” Jimin’s gaze swept to the empty workstation of his other work buddy.Chen smiled. “He’s gone out to meet a friend for lunch, so it’s just the two of us today. There’s a new café across the street which I’ve been thinking of taking you to.”Jimin pursed his lips, contemplating what he should do next. He said, “I actually brought food from home and packed extra. Would you mind having some?”Chen’s smile broadened. “Why not?”“I’ll heat up the food then.” They moved to the open garden terrace just a storey below, and settled into one of the benches under a shaded area.Jimin set out the bentos on the space between them.The scenario was exactly how he had in mind - enjoying lunch in the garden terrace that looked out to the city below. It felt pleasant to bask in some semblance of mother nature in the bustling city.But instead of Taehyung, it was Chen sitting with him. Jimin’s joy flattened a little.“Did you make all these?” Chen marvelled at the bentos. “You must’ve spent a lot of time.”Jimin managed a small shrug. “A friend helped me. I wanted to make something special. There are also cupcakes.” He took out a cake box from the paper bag.Chen twitched his mouth, torn between which bento to choose. “I like both of them. I suppose we can share?”“Good idea.” Jimin passed him a pair of chopsticks and they started tucking in.“I’ve been wanting to ask you something,” Chen said out of the blue.Jimin raised his eyes from his tumbler.  “Yeah?”Chen pointed at the Rolex peeping out from under his shirt sleeve. “Did you buy that? It must’ve cost you a house.”At Chen’s comment, Jimin’s heart galloped in rattling beats, causing his hand to jerk. Water from his tumbler sloshed over his face, causing him to inhale a huge gulp that triggered a coughing fit.“Yes-No-Yes-no, no-” He gasped, desperately wishing he could just hide somewhere as Chen leaned forward and thumped his back.Eyes watering, Jimin rasped, “It’s-It’s a gift from a friend.” He took the handkerchief which Chen had offered. “Thanks.”A disbelieving glance from Chen. “Woah, he or she must’ve been a really close friend to give you that.”Wiping his face, Jimin chortled nervously. If anyone found out that it was Taehyung who’d given him the watch, it’d be doomsday to their secret arrangement.When he didn’t elaborate further, Chen’s eyes beamed thoughtfully. “Can I wear it for a while?”“Eh?”“I’ve never had a chance to put on a Rolex.”“Oh-of course, of course.” Only too relieved he didn’t have to continue his bluff, Jimin removed the watch from his wrist and handed it to Chen.Chen raised his arm, admired the watch now glinting on his wrist in the sunlight. “It’s gorgeous.”“Really?” Jimin popped a sauté potato into his mouth. “I never think much about those stuff.”Chen ruffled his hair like an elder sibling would. “It’s one of the things I like about you. You never bother with material stuff.”Jimin gave him an innocuous grin and returned back to his food.“You’re a great cook too,” Chen complimented and plopped a rice ball into his mouth. “Guys rarely whip up fancy meals like these.”“It’s nothing special, but I’m glad you like it.”“I hope big brother doesn’t come stomping here though,” Chen said.“Big brother?”“You know, Taehyung.” Chen made an awkward gesture with his shoulder. “He seems to get worked up whenever he sees us together.” A playful wink at Jimin. “Or am I missing something - are you his spy in the office?”“What? No-no-of course not,” Jimin waved his chopsticks, so frantically that Chen threw his head back in laughter.“I was only joking.”Jimin jutted out his lower lip, certain that his face must be heating red like cooked lobsters. “That’s not funny.”“Sorry, I just can’t help teasing you.”The need to put in a good word for Taehyung made Jimin said, “Taehyung can be demanding sometimes, but he isn’t unreasonable. He just has high expectations of himself and expect the same from us.”“If you say so,” Chen murmured.When Jimin blinked, he shrugged with another smile and forked a piece of grilled chicken onto Jimin’s plate.*From the conference room in the upper floor, Taehyung watched the scene playing out at the terrace garden below. At Jimin enjoying his lunch with Chen.The shareholders’ meeting had ended earlier under his push. People had emptied out of the room and he’d been about to call Jimin when he’d looked out the glass window and spotted the boy at the terrace garden below.What the fuck. Hadn’t he told Jimin to keep a distance from Chen?It wasn’t anything specific, but something about Chen rubbed Taehyung the wrong way. This animosity manifested when he’d caught Chen getting too close to Jimin last week. The guy’s gestures towards Jimin and his tendency to get too close to him annoyed Taehyung to no end. Still, he’d brushed it off as knee-jerk jealousy and upped his tolerance.But right now, what was playing before his eyes was Jimin having a fucking whale of a time with Chen. Bastard Chen.Taehyung took in the way Jimin bent forward in laughter, the manner his hands gestured energetically in the air, in reciprocation to whatever Chen was saying. The two were clearly bubbled in their own world. Like a pair of happy lovers.At one point, food was exchanged, chopsticks were shared and that bastard touched his boy’s hair.A dangerous flint sparked inside Taehyung, unearthing long-buried emotions of distrust and hatred that almost killed him a long time ago.It was rage, that another man was seeing Jimin the way he did.It was also rage, that Jimin was still oblivious when it came to male attraction. The boy obviously hadn’t been heeding his advice. “I’m starving.” Jungkook whistled as he returned from the gents. “We ought to celebrate with something good after surviving those horrid- hey what’s the matter with you?”Taehyung turned his face slowly to his cousin.Jungkook’s expression morphed into alarm, only too familiar with that face and the dangerous vibe coming out of Taehyung. He whipped his head towards the window and quickly assessed the situation below.“You need to relax,” Jungkook said matter-of-factly. “It’s normal for colleagues to have lunch together. Moreover, they are work buddies.”“Do we laugh and talk like that?” Taehyung challenged coldly as he watched on. Jimin and that bastard seemed to be done, packing up the boxes.Fuck, did he just put his hand on Jimin’s shoulders? Bloodletting violence washed his vision.“Get your shit together.” Jungkook raised his voice and smacked Taehyung on his back, as if hitting the dark spiral out of him. “Jimin treats everyone nicely. Unless you want to scare him away, stop moping like a jealous brat.”That, Taehyung had come to conclude, was Jimin’s problem. The boy made everyone around him feel special and he was rarely on his guard among people. It was an endearing quality, but also kind of hopeless.“Nice – what a useless trait,” Taehyung murmured.Jungkook dropped his hand from Taehyung’s back and fixed a steady look on him. “Talk to him later, be kind and understanding about it. I’m serious.”Taehyung slipped his hands into his pockets, crushed them into tight fists.“Shit, are you listening to me?” Jungkook chided.Saying nothing, Taehyung headed for the door, ignoring Jungkook calling after him. Taehyung kept himself in his office for the rest of the afternoon, focusing on his work with ruthless calm and efficiency.Thinking. Stewing. Thinking. Stewing.He would have to talk to Jimin again.A knock on the door disrupted his thoughts. Chen’s head popped in.He sauntered in with a polite smile that had Taehyung’s anger lighting its match.“Is there anything?” He shifted sharp eyes to Chen without lifting his head.Documents in hand, Chen said, “These are the gamers’ profiles you need for Project Quantum.”“Just leave it here.”As Chen set down the documents, something on his wrist caught the light.A watch. A very familiar-looking watch.Even as cold blood pounded his brain, Taehyung’s voice was quiet and neutral as he asked, “Is that yours?”Chen’s eyes roamed to the Rolex on his wrists. A smile danced in his eyes. “It’s Jimin’s, actually. He’s lent it to me for the day.”The snarl was already in Taehyung’s throat as he slowly rose from his chair. “Take it out.”Chen gave him a baffled look. “Why?”“I gave that to Jimin. Take it out.”Chen seemed taken aback but only for a split second. Eyes still smiling and on Taehyung, he unstrapped the watch and dropped it quietly on the documents before him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t know you gave it to Jimin. He didn’t tell me”The quiet calm in Taehyung’s tone sounded more lethal than if he’d yelled. “Jimin’s off limits. Stay away from him.”That bastard had the cheek to look innocent. “I think Jimin’s feelings and mine are mutual, Taehyung.”“What do you mean?” His blood singed further.“Jimin and I see eye to eye on the same issues. He’s been valuable company and has been helping me sort out my private life. I see him as a very... special friend.”When Taehyung remained silent, Chen tipped his head sideway. “Sorry, I probably shouldn’t be saying this in front of my boss.”“You shouldn’t.” Taehyung said, folding his arms coldly. “But your behaviour spells otherwise so you might as well finish. How close are you to him?”That infuriatingly shy grin returned to Chen’s face in full force. “Since you asked, Jimin’s been helping me pick furniture and appliances for my new place. It takes a load off my worries, knowing there’s someone there to support me.”Like a red signal, the credit card transaction which Jimin had made using his card flashed in Taehyung’s mind. If he hadn’t known control, he would have smashed the bastard’s head against the glass.But he remained calm, deadly calm as he warned Chen. “Jimin’s too nice to say no to people. You’re taking advantage of his kindness. Stay away from him.”“Is that a threat?”“It’s not, but I can make one.” And he would if this nonsense continued. Anything to claim and keep whatever was his.Colour drained from Chen’s face. He stepped back and mumbled his apology.  Looking dejected, he left the room quietly.Taehyung sank back into his chair. Fury, so acute roared in his head.His eyes settled on the Rolex before him, the watch face like a clown mocking him.He snatched it up and tossed it into the bin.A relationship required not just commitment, but also trust and freedom. But only a fool would give trust and freedom like he’d been doing with Jimin all this while.And Taehyung wasn’t a fool, unless he wanted to suffer the same pain again.Enough of fun and games. Enough of leniency and trust. Jimin simply didn’t seem to get it.Taehyung wasn’t even aware that the pen in his monstrous grip had shattered.Ink from the pen dripped down between his fingers.***After work, Jimin took the lift to the basement carpark. He waited at the VIP area where Yoongi would discreetly pick him up on Fridays before driving him and Taehyung to whatever place which the alpha had picked for dinner.Jimin opened the back door and there was no sign of Taehyung in the backseat. Instead, he found the alpha behind the wheel.“Where’s Yoongi?” Jimin asked.With a brief backward glance, Taehyung said from the driver seat, “I’ve dismissed him for the day.”Jimin smiled. “Ha, you want to drive for a change, right?”Shutting the back door, he stepped to the front and slid into the passenger seat beside Taehyung.Taehyung drove off the second the door shut.As Jimin buckled his seatbelt, he sensed something odd. There was no ‘good evening’ kiss from Taehyung today.“How was your day?” Taehyung asked as he left the parking lot and drove into the main road.“It was fine, just a normal day I guess.” Jimin said and went on his usual babbling.  He paused when he noticed that Taehyung wasn’t responding or smiling as he normally would whenever they shared about the details of their day at work. In fact, he hadn’t even looked at him since he’d entered the car.“Is something wrong?” Jimin asked, peeping a glance at Taehyung.The alpha’s profile was harsh and defiant, his eyes hard as he stared ahead, and the corners of his mouth were somewhat turned down. His knuckles were white with pressure on the steering wheel.Instead of answering Jimin, he shot back at him with another question. “How was your lunch?”Jimin’s heart hopped a beat. Since they didn’t have lunch together today, he wasn’t going to reveal the surprise he’d prepared for Taehyung. Project Bento could still make a comeback.“I-I had something simple at the café downstairs, since we couldn’t meet.’ He glossed over his lie over with a quick laugh.A muscle in Taehyung’s cheek jumped and Jimin hoped it was just his imagination.“What did you have?”“A ham and cheese sandwich,” Jimin blurted out, secretly wincing at his silly lie.Taehyung made a sudden violent serve to the left. The car veered with a forceful jerk that had Jimin’s hands scrambling for the grab handle.Taehyung was definitely brooding. Jimin wondered if it had anything to do with the shareholders’ meeting this afternoon.Tension cautioned him to tread carefully. “Is everything okay?”No response.“Where’re we going for dinner?”“Home. You can fix us something,” Taehyung muttered and a heavy breath escaped his nostrils.Jimin worried his lower lip. “Shall we pick up some groceries then? We can make your favourite baked salmon and salsa-”“Just make do with what we have in the fridge,” Taehyung snapped.“Okay.”For the rest of the journey home, a tense silence ballooned in the car. Taehyung drove maddeningly fast, but maintained perfect control.He didn’t look at Jimin. Not even once. The moment they arrived home, Jimin set about preparing dinner, making as little noise as possible in the kitchen. Taehyung sat at the table, his arms folded across his chest and his face unreadable.As Jimin rummaged the fridge and made do with whatever ingredients he could assemble, he was aware of the alpha’s piercing gaze on him. Something was definitely amiss, but what?In the end, he made bean paste soup and cooked brown rice.They sat at the table in total silence, except for the sound of cutlery.“The bank called,” Taehyung said, hardly touching his food. “You bought something with my card.”Jimin’s eyes lifted to him. “I used it to pay for appliances for a friend, since he didn’t bring enough cash that day. He’s just transferred the money to me, and I’ll pay you back.”“Which friend?” Taehyung asked, his expression revealing nothing about his thoughts.It was then Jimin realised that he had omitted mentioning Chen, as though it’d been a natural instinct to do so. Maybe it was because of his conversation with Chen over lunch today, about Taehyung being harsh towards him. Furthermore, Chen hadn’t looked good when he’d returned from the alpha’s office this afternoon.Jimin found himself saying. “He’s just a normal friend.”“Do I know him?”“No.” The lie was out before Jimin could stop himself. Cold sweat misted his palms and he rubbed them away on his pants. God, he hated this-Sharp clattering noises startled him. Taehyung had chucked his spoon and fork on the glass surface.The alpha pushed his chair behind and stood. “I’m done. See me when you are.” Jimin watched Taehyung stalked out of the dining area and disappeared into the hallway.In any normal day when they dined at home, they would wash the dishes and clean up together. But today wasn’t any normal day.Taehyung’s plate was still full with rice and he’d barely touched his soup.Jimin dropped his gaze to his own plate. He’d hardly taken a few bites too.His appetite had simply vanished.After clearing the dishes, Jimin deliberately took a longer shower in one of the guestrooms, hoping that some time and distance would improve Taehyung’s mood.It was an hour later when he padded into the master bedroom. Taehyung was standing before the mirror, in his bathrobe and clearly showered.Keeping an arm’s length away from him, Jimin asked softly. “Do you want to talk about what’s bothering you?”Eyes, so cold and silent skimmed his face. “Clothes off.”Jimin sucked in a breath. “I…”“Everything.”Trying to keep his fingers from showing the slightest tremble, Jimin unbuttoned and shrugged out of his pyjama shirt. He moved to work on his pants next. All the while, Taehyung’s darkened eyes consumed his body, spiralling a mixture of apprehension and arousal down Jimin’s core.He stripped, until he was in nothing but his boxers.“I said everything,” came Taehyung’s unfeeling voice.Air oozed out of Jimin’s lungs. Even though this wasn’t the Taehyung he was accustomed to, the desire to please purred obedience into Jimin’s ears. He pulled off his boxers.It wasn’t the first time he stood naked before Taehyung. Yet, it felt different this time, like a prey being watched.Suddenly self-conscious, Jimin wrapped his arms around himself. “Are we doing something different?”He watched Taehyung took out a watch box from the drawer.Another Rolex, with a different design. Silver strap this time.Watch in hand, Taehyung took Jimin’s wrist and clasped it around his wrist. Jimin’s skin chilled as the cold metallic strap kissed his wrist.“You already gave me one,” he muttered.“And where is it?” Taehyung asked.A small spurt of fear raced through Jimin’s veins.“It’s at home.” The lie was out of his mouth before his mind could process it.“I see,” Taehyung watched him intently. His gaze held a depth of something dangerous which Jimin couldn’t identify. He only knew he hated lying to Taehyung.
Better be truthful.
“Taehyung, it’s actually-”Jimin didn’t get to finish as he was been yanked and tossed onto the bed. Flat on his stomach, he scrambled on his elbows and peered behind his shoulder to see Taehyung at the foot of the bed, parting his robe.Before Jimin could so much as gasp, Taehyung yanked his hips up and drove himself into him.“Taehyung-” A shocked cry of pain punctured out of Jimin’s throat. The sudden slam of Taehyung’s full length inside him was something he hadn’t prepared for.There was no foreplay. No sweettalk. No warning.Still dry and unprepared, a tearing pain sliced through Jimin’s body as Taehyung began pounding into him. Tears choked his throat. What was happening?It wasn’t the first time Taehyung had taken him from behind, but it’d never been like this. Jimin bit his lip, trying to forget the pain as Taehyung plunged into him, doggy style.As Taehyung’s penetration became rougher and deeper, pleasure began to sweep over Jimin, fusing with pain.He gulped down a ragged breath when the alpha’s hand slithered to his dangling cock and began jerking it in hard and fast strokes. The arousal was forced out of his body but no less gratifying. His quickened breathes melded into erotic moans.“You turned on now?” Taehyung’s hot breath heated his neck. “Um-” Jimin bit his lip, bunching the covers in his hand. Even as Taehyung pummelled into him, his hand continued to jerk off Jimin’s cock, dousing him with double sensual attacks.An orgasm was approaching like a cascading wave. Jimin could feel it.Savage and intense. He was going to come soon.But Taehyung’s thumb closed on the tip of his cock and pressed, denying him his release.“I didn’t say you can come,” Taehyung growled. “I-” Jimin’s breath caught.“Hold it.” A command. “You only come when I allow you to.”Disbelief registered in Jimin’s ears. Panting, he fought to control his breathing even as his below threaten to explode.Over and over again Taehyung thrusted into Jimin, alternating between slow and deliberate, then fast and deep. He pushed Jimin to the edge of orgasm and withdrew just before the peak, and began torturing him all over again.Tears stung the back of Jimin’s eyes. He bit his lips so hard he tasted blood. He couldn’t take it anymore. If he wasn’t allowed to come soon, he would break.“Taehyung, please- I-I need to…” he pleaded.“Look at the watch.” Another command. No empathy. No nothing.Jimin blinked back tears. His eyes took in a blurry vision of the watch on his wrist. The metallic strap was now warmed by his sweat, snugging against his moisten skin.“Who gave it to you?” Taehyung demanded.“You.” His voice shook, losing control. “You- Taehyung-” “Can anyone else wear it besides you?” He thumbed harder on the tip of Jimin’s cock and a sore gasp coughed out of Jimin’s throat.“No-please… I can’t-” Jimin begged. When his body gave way and spasmed, Taehyung jerked him back into position and resumed playing him from behind.Then, with one final thrust that almost ripped Jimin’s insides apart, Taehyung emptied himself.And let go of him.Crying out, Jimin collapsed onto the tangled sheets. His own full orgasm spilled in a warm pool beneath him as his lungs gasped for air.Yet, there wasn’t a moment for a breather, as Taehyung flipped Jimin on his back like a ragged doll.The alpha came down hard on him, his hands pinning Jimin’s wrists beside his head. The watch strap dug painfully into his skin.“Tell me what’s going on, please!” Jimin cried.“Would you like it if other men fuck you like this?”Taehyung’s words, the uncontained harshness and vulgarity, chilled Jimin to the bones.“I don’t know what you’re saying!”“Yes or no!” Taehyung demanded. The killing expression on his face and the way his eyes darkened in intensity told Jimin that he was gone.This wasn’t the Taehyung he knew. He’s gone.But Jimin had come to a point where he cared for Taehyung more than himself. If that was what the alpha needed, he would give him.Resisting the fear that pounded madly in his heart, Jimin rasped. “I’m not backing down.”It wasn’t a challenge, but a token from Jimin that he would ride out the storm with Taehyung. If it was what Taehyung wanted, Jimin would endure it.For him and no one else.But the violent flash in Taehyung’s eyes interpreted his answer as a sign of defiance. His grasp on Jimin tightened as he began pushing himself inside again.Like a butterfly being pinned alive by its wings, Jimin surrendered. He shut his eyes to what was happening between them. He was afraid that if he opened them, he wouldn’t recognise the creature in front of him.Still, Taehyung plowed on, his grunts breathing over Jimin’s ear and his hands mining into Jimin’s hips to keep him stretched open for him.As Taehyung’s mouth dived into his, Jimin tasted the alpha’s blind greed and his desire for total control.They breathed hard against each other, with Jimin trapped and helpless beneath Taehyung.
Come back, please.
Still, Taehyung drove and drove, too unhinged to care how roughly.Until he ripped another climax out of Jimin.Until Jimin was in guttural sobs, and his hands dropped limp to his sides.Until Jimin had nothing left to give. As Taehyung’s weight lifted from him, Jimin rolled limply to his side. In shuddering sobs, he curled himself up into a foetal ball. Vaguely, he could hear Taehyung’s quick and ragged breathes behind him.Too feeble to even raise a limb, Jimin said nothing as his body was being turned over again - this time gently, to face Taehyung.Taehyung shifted him on his lap, locking him in his embrace. His wet face pressed against Taehyung’s neck, his breath still shaking.Neither of them spoke for a while as Taehyung held him.
Come back, please.
Knuckling Jimin’s tears away, Taehyung whispered into his ear, “A couple of rules you should know, Jimin. One - Don’t ever lie to me again. Two - I don’t share, and neither should you.”  Jimin whimpered his agreement even though his mind was still struggling to piece together what’d happened. As he settled in Taehyung’s arms, exhaustion swept him away into the darkness.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Four years ago

Death was making its slow march towards his granny.A sense of helplessness spread through Taehyung. He sat by the bed as his granny lay perfectly still, with an oxygen mask over her pale face.As Taehyung held her wrinkled and bony hand, he could feel the cold taking over her body, chipping life out of her. Gone was his granny’s trademark wrinkly smile, replaced by sunken cheeks and shadows under her eyes. The slow rise and fall of the elderly’s chest was the only sign that she was still here, alive but barely so.Taehyung’s thoughts wandered back to the results slip that’d arrived in the mail that afternoon. For the second time, he’d failed the entrance test for med school. He didn’t have good news to share. In the silent night of the hospital room, his company was the only thing he could afford his granny.Whoever said that life rewarded those who were kind and worked hard probably didn’t have much to worry about.As far as Taehyung was concerned, his life had been a joke. His father detested him, treated his presence like vermin. The rejection from med school had sealed his fate in his father’s eyes, that his biological son was a good-for-nothing.Then there were Jin and Namjoon, his high-achieving brothers he looked up to but could never catch up with. The disappointment on Jin’s face when Taehyung’d told him his results earlier had said it all. He hadn’t been a good younger brother to Jin, and he certainly made a bad lover to Jin these days.Taehyung missed the old days, where things were simpler, when Jin demanded less of him and smiled at his street smartness and free-spirited demeanour. They had only been dating secretly for less than six months, and yet so much had happened. These days, petty arguments overshadowed heartfelt conversations whenever they were together.When Jin had suggested filing an appeal with the examination board to review his results, Taehyung had insisted that it was useless.  They’d debated back and forth until one of them (he couldn’t remember who) started yelling and they ended up firing vicious words against each other.Taehyung could see that Jin, the gentlest of the three brothers was getting weary. With Namjoon away in the States for a medical exchange program, Jin was clearly struggling with his role as a supportive elder brother. To make matters worse, Jin wasn’t one for confrontation, as opposed to Taehyung who preferred to thrash things out. He couldn’t stomach the pity in Jin’s eyes whenever he talked to him these days. They felt like duty and pity, not love.“Please, Taehyung, you need to keep a calm mind about this,” Jin pushed up his glasses repeatedly, a habit whenever he was at his wits end.“If you’re embarrassed of me, just say so,” Taehyung shot back. He stormed out of Jin’s room, leaving him close to tears.After that, Taehyung’d left the Kim’s residence and found himself back at the hospital. Although the place reeked of antiseptics and death, it offered a modicum of peace. At least nobody here would judge him or tell him what to do. Before his granny, Taehyung was free to be himself.When some sense of calm had returned to him, he left the hospital.Once again, he’d been a jerk to Jin. The knowledge that he couldn’t make the person he loved happy was pure torture. Namjoon would probably lecture him if he found out that he’d made Jin cry again. It was close to midnight when Taehyung made it back to the Kim’s residence, to the confines of the cold walls that bore nothing like a home should.As he started up the stairs, his mind rehearsed his apology to Jin. His fingers fiddled with the necklace in his pocket. He’d gotten it for Jin a few days ago, but couldn’t find the right opportunity to give it to him. Taehyung was going to talk to Jin properly this time, and make things between them right again.  If he couldn’t be the son his father wanted, he could at least be the man Jin needed. Any other part of his life could fail, but not when it came to Jin.He was nearing Jin’s room when voices floating out of the ajar door paused his steps.Jin, and Namjoon.Shouldn’t Namjoon be arriving tomorrow? Did his training end early?The grave tone of Namjoon’s voice and the worried frown on Jin’s face stopped Taehyung from entering. He paused by the door, unnoticed by his brothers.“I should’ve come back earlier if I’ve known this would happen,” Namjoon said.Jin tunnelled his fingers through his tousled hair. “He’s still at the hospital. He’s been there most of the time since Doctor Yoo told us the bad news. You know how close he is to Granny.”Namjoon said, “Ever since Grandpa left, only Tae understands her the best, and she worries about him the most.”At Namjoon’s remark, Taehyung’s ego pricked with humiliation, more at his own incapability than at his elder brother’s matter-of-fact tone. He was about to announce his presence when Namjoon asked Jin, “Have you spoken to him about us?”
Us?
Head lowered, Jin cleared his throat and stuttered, “I-I couldn’t do it. I can’t help thinking that I’m going to hurt him the most, any more than what’s already happening.”“You’ve done everything you could,” Namjoon took his hand. “Taehyung deserves to know the truth from us. The longer we keep it from him, the harder the truth will hit him.”Even from where he stood, Taehyung could literally sense the nerves and guilt from Jin.“I can’t,” Jin said. “I can’t bear telling him about us now. Not with so many things happening.”Namjoon drew him into his arms. “Let’s tell him together.”A disordered terror sluiced through Taehyung. His fingers fiddling the necklace in his pocket froze.An audible sigh from Jin as he rested his head on Namjoon’s shoulder. “The university has rejected his application. He didn’t make it, Joon. Dad told him to either suit up for law school or...leave the house.”Namjoon hesitated only an instant as his hands continued to stroke Jin’s back. He said, “We know that Taehyung’s given his best – he always does, and you’ve exhausted all options helping him. But there’s only so much we can do. The rest is up to Taehyung to figure out.”Even a stranger could tell that what was transpiring between Namjoon and Jin was beyond brotherly love. The scene playing before Taehyung was exactly the kind of love he’d been having with Jin.And he was about to lose it.Namjoon eased away and retrieved a box from the table. A watch for Jin.“I saw this and thought of you.” He strapped the silver bracelet around Jin’s wrist. “I miss you, dear.”Jin gave a small smile as he looked at the watch wistfully. There was a long-absent softness in his eyes beneath those thick rimmed glasses. “I miss you too,” he said to Namjoon.From the door, Taehyung watched as Namjoon brushed Jin’s tears away. He watched as he leaned forward and their lips met.He watched on, as Jin reciprocated and kissed back.Taehyung’s fingers tightened around the necklace in his pocket, the snarl already in his throat. Something inside him shattered. It wasn’t his heart, for he could hear it pounding hard and fast in his ears. But whatever that broke inside him made it clear that he wasn’t going to be the same again.After what felt like an eternity, they broke apart.  Jin sounded comforted as he said, “Joon, I’m just so relieved that you’re back. There are so many things that’ve happened and I don’t know if-” His gaze caught the movement at the door. “Taehyung.”The shock on his brothers’ faces lasted a split second before shame knocked them over.Taehyung cocked his head to the side. “Looks like I wasn’t expected.”“Let me explain,” Jin made an anxious move toward him but Namjoon held him back.“Sure, I’m all ears.” Taehyung spread out his hands. “Tell me, was I your first or this bastard?”“Taehyung, you know Jin would never do anything of that kind,” Namjoon warned.“What kind? I’m seeing a different picture here. Educate me.”The tension in Jin returned in full force as he fought for calm. “I was going to tell you soon but there were so many things going on – with your examinations and Granny being hospitalised and all. I know you’ve been trying very hard to make our relationship work, but… we’re not compatible.”“What a stunning revelation.” Taehyung let out a short, humourless laugh and clapped his hands.“Don’t be like that,” Jin begged. Again, he made to move but Namjoon held him back.“Like what?” Taehyung challenged. Holding back his punches required massive effort and he wasn’t confident that he could remain cool for even a second longer.“It’s not Jin’s fault,” Namjoon said, moving Jin to his back. “Blame me if you must. We all need to talk this out.”“Save your explanations,” Taehyung cut him off. “If it wasn’t obvious enough before, it’s quite so to me now.”“This isn’t what you think.” Jin said. “Please, Taehyung. Give me a chance to explain everything to you.”But Taehyung’s pride was as ruthless an emotion as his hurt. He arrowed Jin and Namjoon one last, hostile look before he turned for the door.“Stay well, my brothers. And stay away from me.”That same night, death claimed his granny.

Present

In the near darkness of the room, Taehyung continued holding onto Jimin, until the boy’s breathing slowed against his chest.When Jimin had fully drifted off, Taehyung grabbed one of his own oversized tee and pulled it over the boy’s nakedness. He laid Jimin down, propped a pillow beneath his head, and draped the covers over him.Jimin’s face had faded to tiredness, leaving him with a vulnerable yet peaceful look as he slept. His breathing had soothed as dreams took him to a place of soft escape. A place Taehyung couldn’t, thankfully, invade.Sharpness twanged Taehyung’s chest as he watched the boy’s sleeping face. What had he done?He stayed with Jimin for a longer while, then headed to the bathroom.What a monster he’d allowed himself to become, Taehyung thought, as he jabbed the shower to a full, cold blast. Jimin had taken his sadness away but in return, he’d inflicted pain on him.Deep inside, a voice chided Taehyung - that if he’d understood Jimin and tossed aside his fucking insecurities, he’d have known Jimin would never betray him.  Instead, he had let jealousy whipped his logic, played him like a puppet.The incident earlier was enough indication that Taehyung wasn’t meant for relationships. He was piece of junk, just like his father had accurately predicted. If that was the case, he would have to let Jimin go.He would solve Jimin’s financial problems by force so that he wouldn’t entertain funny ideas of escorting anymore. Then, he would haul the boy out of his life. Set him free. Only when his body became numbed by the frosty water did Taehyung crank off the shower. He dried himself and changed into fresh clothes. He didn’t return to see Jimin again and headed for his study instead. Work and the thought of a bleak future manipulated the rest of his sleepless night. Dawn had spilled its light by the time Taehyung returned to the bedroom. The bed was empty. The sheets were smoothed out, looking pristine and untouched.Jimin was nowhere in sight.The first thought that stumbled into Taehyung’s mind was that he had left. The boy was gone.
Gone.
Taehyung dashed out of the room.A relieved sigh gusted out of his lungs when he found Jimin in the kitchen.On any normal weekend morning, the boy would be wearing one of Taehyung’s oversized T-shirt. But not today. Jimin had changed back into his own sweatshirt and lounge pants.
Look what you’ve done.
He jolted when he saw Taehyung, and the way his shoulders tensed made the alpha unbearably sad. He wanted to hug Jimin, tell him he was sorry. Sorry for letting his insecurities get the better of him. Sorry for having so little faith in him.And sorry, for believing that he was like Jin and Namjoon.
Let him go. You don’t deserve him.
But instead of lashing out at Taehyung, Jimin schooled his features into a small smile, a strained one. Even his polite voice was painful to hear. “Hi- morning- there’s a lot of leftovers from last night. I’m heating them up. Would-would you like to have some?”A small offering of peace.It should be Taehyung offering peace, not Jimin. Still, the bastard in him had him biting out, “You know I only drink shakes in the morning.”Jimin’s smile faded.“Of-of course. I’ll make one now.” Jimin’s hands fumbled as he glanced around, then moved with purpose to retrieve the protein powder from the top shelf and ice from the fridge. He peeled a banana and added it to the blender.Taehyung watched him at work. Jimin’s movements were mechanical, deprived of the usual joy which he would usually emit when preparing breakfast.When he offered Taehyung the milkshake and he didn’t take it, he set it on the counter beside him. “You may want to drink it while it’s still fresh,” Jimin said. “The nutrients won’t be as rich if you drink it later.”Let him go.Words jumbled in Taehyung’s tongue. “Jimin, I-”Another forced smile. “It’s alright, you don’t have to tell me what’s bothering you if it’s personal. I… understand.”“That’s not what I want to say,” Taehyung said.Jimin wrapped his arms around Taehyung. He sounded hollow as he said, “I’m sorry, for lying to you.”The boy’s docile attitude doubled Taehyung’s pain. He would rather Jimin yell at him, hit him, do anything but stop being nice to him.After a heavy silence, Taehyung said, “I hurt you.”Jimin looked up at him with sad eyes. “Yes, you did. But I let you.”“I hurt you.” He shrugged Jimin’s hands away from him, and didn’t miss the dejected look on the boy’s face.“Believe me, Taehyung. I would’ve fought you if I didn’t want to let you. But yes, it hurts. Not the body, but -” Jimin’s throat bobbed with a swallow as he rubbed his fist at his chest, the left of center. “-here. It hurts, here.”Shame gnawed deeper at Taehyung. “What should I do to make it right?”Jimin turned his face away. “I don’t know, Taehyung. Since you’re the client paying me for my services, why not you tell me what to do? If you’d still like me to stay, I will. If you want me to go, I will.” “You want to stay with me?” he asked, uncertain if he’d heard it correctly.“If you’re not planning to change to another escort,” Jimin replied.“You’re not an escort to me.” Now he was beginning to feel exasperated.“I’m used to you anyway,” Jimin said in a manner which had Taehyung interpreting it as failed nonchalance. Jimin was hurting more than he was letting out.Taehyung knew it was messed up, but the initial sureness of letting Jimin go turned to ashes. It made him a greedy bastard but maybe he could still keep Jimin by his side.The boy was too nice, too soft for his own good. Could he even survive on his own outside? Maybe it would be good to teach him a thing or two before letting him go.Taehyung took the milkshake and gently wrapped Jimin’s hand around the glass, “Drink this first. Don’t eat the leftovers. We’ll eat out later.”“Okay.”“I’ll see you in half an hour. You can use one of the guestrooms and sleep there from now on.” Better to keep a distance away from him.Jimin said nothing more. His face went slack and his eyes turned watery. Taehyung couldn’t tell if they were tears of hurt or relief or both. He muttered a ‘see you later’ and left the kitchen, leaving Jimin behind.An unspoken understanding passed between them, that things between them would be different from now on. ***For the rest of the weekend, they remained under the same roof but spent their time apart.Jimin let work dominated his time. Taehyung had made a passing comment that if he’d like, he could go back to his own apartment. But Jimin didn’t want to alarm Hoseok by returning earlier. His friend had texted him to ask about Project Bento and he had lied to his friend by cooking up a happy ending. His heart throbbed to even think about how things had turned so sour between him and Taehyung.So, Jimin cooped himself up in the guestroom, poring over business books and news articles. He tried his best to focus on drafting the proposal for a potential investor, but thoughts of Taehyung kept invading his market statistics research.Jimin gave his head a hard shake, as though he could shake away what happened that night.That Taehyung hadn’t been making love to him. It wasn’t lovemaking.Taehyung had been fucking him. As though it was his right.But when it ended, the alpha had held him in his arms like he was his dear life.It’d left Jimin feeling confused, cheap and small. And used.He liked being useful to people, but being used was another matter.Had it just been sex all this while? Had he been too consumed by the sweetness overload for the past couple months that he’d forgotten that he was, after all, just Taehyung’s escort?He had told him to use the guestroom.Taehyung didn’t want him anymore. Then why still keep him?Too many emotions were battering Jimin that ignorance was the best defence. Regardless of Taehyung’s intentions, it was time to wake up. Dream time was over, no more sunshine and cotton candies.This was work. Just work – whether as office boy or social escort.At least if Jimin worked hard enough, he could prove to himself and Taehyung that he was worth more than just an outlet for the alpha’s sexual frustrations.And so, Jimin continued to work on the market research and proposal, even though he had no interest in the subject. ***Over the following week, Taehyung became increasingly critical of Jimin’s work. Outside the office, he kept a distance from Jimin. There were no more kisses or hugs. When they talked, it was usually out of necessity. Apart from that, conversations between them had stalled.Still, Taehyung seemed to be pushing Jimin out of his comfort zone at the work place. He involved Jimin in client meetings and social functions, introduced him to various people from the upper echelons of society.Those people (mostly businessmen, politicians and socialites) shook hands with him, with polite smiles plastered on their faces. But their eyes conveyed only a diplomatic warmth, obvious to Jimin that they only paid attention to him because of Taehyung. Otherwise, they would not even bother entertaining a country boy.Despite the tough going Jimin had at work, there were still things to be thankful for. Every now and then, Chen would leave a fruit or snack on his desk, with a motivational quote to cheer him up. It was as if his work buddy understood, since business was at its peak at V Inc and everyone was tasked with multiple projects to oversee.After a short conversation with Chen during lunch break, a dawning sense grew in Jimin that Taehyung might be doing these to show him how different they were.“The dark clouds will pass, and you’ll emerge stronger and better. I have faith in you,” Chen had said to Jimin, giving him a buddy pat on the shoulder.Jimin shuttled between daytime of meetings and night time preparing market proposals. It was good to be busy, he kept telling himself. Keeping busy excused him from talking to people about trivial matters. Further, there was always Chen who would lend his silent support and Jungkook, whom he would approach whenever he had things to clarify. Jimin did a decent job, until Friday afternoon rolled around and brought him to an exclusive country club. Over a game of golf, Taehyung discussed business and politics with some English business investors, as Jimin awkwardly stood by the side and watched. “This, ah this is a good game,’ said Mr. Johnson, a middle-aged English man who had come from Scotland. “Would this young man here like to give it a shot?”Jimin blinked, then crumbled into a jitter of nerves when he realised that Mr. Johnson was smiling amicably at him.“You mean me?” he pointed at himself, then laughed nervously. He knew nothing about golf and was already dying to get out of this place.“Give it a try,” Taehyung said, with a rare face of encouragement and understanding.After a beat, Jimin nodded then came to the front. He wrapped his hands gingerly around a golf club.“Relax, I’m here.” Taehyung murmured to him. He wrapped his arms around Jimin, and showed him how to swing the golf club. “Just hold onto this, lift and swing once to the front and upwards.” He motioned again and encouraged Jimin to give it a shot.Jimin tried, fumbled and failed. Much to his chagrin and laughter of a few others nearby, he missed the ball as the club swung futilely into the air.“I’m sorry,” he muttered and moved away before Taehyung could say anything. He continued moving backwards and bumped into another golfer who was swinging his club. Before Taehyung’s shouting registered in his ears, Jimin had stumbled and the toe of the golf club hit the back of his hand. He yelped in pain.Taehyung scowled. “Be careful where you’re going.” He took Jimin’s hand, examined the redden spot on the back of his hand.“My deepest apologies, Park,” Mr. Johnson said apologetically. “I wasn’t aware that you didn’t know how to play golf.”Jimin brushed it off with a forced smile. “This is nothing at all, just a slight brush.” He pulled his hand away from Taehyung. “Why don’t you go to the lounge room and take a rest? I’ll be with you shortly,” Taehyung said, somewhat distracted. Because it was hard to detect Taehyung’s concern these days, Jimin thought he must be hearing things.“It’s nothing serious, really.” Jimin assured. “I’m sure you still have business to discuss. I-I’ll just wait in for you inside. You don’t have to come.”He excused himself and retreated indoors, secretly relieved to catch a breather even though his hand was throbbing.Jimin entered the lounge room to the presence of few club members. Suddenly, he felt to the core that he didn’t belong here. There was something exquisite the rich let out, which made him feel inferior. The air here was suffocating him.What am I doing here? Why am I here? Jimin had been asking himself these questions whenever he was in a brilliant crowd that had nothing to do with the life he led.Before a server could attend to him, he nodded politely and turned for the door.A desperate need to get out had him leaving the country club. Instead of returning to the office, Jimin spent the rest of the afternoon wandering the street. His head ached from a lack of sleep, thinking about the work he had to do. It didn’t hurt to take an afternoon off.It was Friday, which meant he had to go to Taehyung’s place later. But right now, he needed some time alone. It was night by the time he arrived at Taehyung’s place.The alpha pivoted down the hallway the moment Jimin entered the threshold. A flame of temper licked his eyes. “Where in the hell have you been?”“I was out walking, and lost track of time,” Jimin said.“You’re saying you’ve been walking all day? No calls, no text, nothing. Pick up the damn phone next time.”“I’m sorry,” Jimin lowered his head. “I didn’t know it was so late. I-I won’t do it again.”Taehyung closed the distance between them in two strides. An expletive escaped his lips as he rubbed Jimin’s hands. “Your hands are frozen, Jimin. Have you no sense, walking around in this weather in an attire like this?”It was then Jimin realised that he hadn’t changed out of his sports attire since leaving the country club.“I’m not cold,” he tried to pull his hands away but Taehyung’s grasp remained firm. Firm, but gentle at the same time.The alpha led him and had him sit on the sofa. A bottle of ointment stood ready on the coffee table.Jimin shook his head. “I told you I’m fine. I shan’t disturb you. Good night.”“No, you won’t.” Taehyung pushed him down to sit.  “What you’ll do is to give me an explanation of your behaviour today.” The alpha twisted the bottle open, poured some ointment and rubbed on Jimin’s swollen hand which now had a bruise forming. “Look at this, you can’t even take care of yourself.”“Please don’t fuss over this,” Jimin said, which only seemed to propel Taehyung’s anger.“It was unbelievably rude, you leaving without a word. Mr. Johnson was asking about you,” the alpha said, as he continued rubbing Jimin’s hand with ointment.Jimin’s wounded pride stopped him from telling the truth. “I…suddenly remembered something in the office.”A muscle in Taehyung’s cheek jerked. The bottle of ointment was out of the alpha’s hand and hurtling towards the wall. Glass shattered and the transparent orange liquid trickled down from the wall.“What did I say about lying to me?” Taehyung murmured.Jimin suppressed a shudder at Taehyung’s outburst. There, he’d made him angry again by lying.Jimin’s voice broke, humiliating himself as he struggled to get the words out. “I couldn’t take it… I had to get out of that place. I don’t belong there.”“You always run away from situations that intimidate you. When would you ever learn to grow up and face things bravely?”Hating how weak he sounded, Jimin said, “I went to the club with you, as an employee of V Inc. If not for you, I wouldn’t even have the opportunity to enter a place like that. I should’ve been grateful and...” His voice trailed off, unsure of what else to say.Taehyung got to his feet. There was no sympathy as he told Jimin, “You’re not going to run away like you did today again. If you don’t know golf, you’ll learn. If you are afraid of making small talks, you’ll practise. You’ll read the papers and brush up your knowledge of current affairs. Same like all the stuff you’ve been doing at work.”“I’m already trying my best.”“You’re coming with me for breakfast with Mr. Johnson tomorrow, and you’re going to apologise to him for your rude behaviour today.”Taehyung left the living room without waiting for Jimin’s reply. Jimin heard him padding down the hallway upstairs and the abrupt click of his bedroom door closing.Alone, Jimin continued to stare at the broken glass and trickle of orange on the wall. As dangerous and capricious as Taehyung had been these days, Jimin knew he could no longer read him.As he swept up the broken glass and cleaned up the mess, he wondered if Taehyung had reached a similar conclusion - that he too, could no longer understand Jimin.Why bother, to keep him, then?+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Taehyung slapped a file down on Jimin’s already crowded desk, flustering him and others nearby.“The figures for the market projections are way off the charts. Did you even check your work?”Never had Jimin imagined that Taehyung would speak to him in such a scathing tone, in the presence of others. He rose from his chair and flipped through the pages frantically. The figures couldn’t be wrong. He’d consulted Jungkook about the proposal a few days ago and the young lawyer had given him the thumbs up on his research efforts.“Did you factor in the Aris buyout which took place this morning?” prompted Taehyung.Understanding dawned on Jimin. “I didn’t.”“I’m afraid it was my fault,” Chen said from his desk. Standing up, he gave Jimin an empathetic nod before returning his focus on Taehyung. “We were working on the proposal together. Being the more experienced one, I should’ve noticed and highlighted the inconsistencies to Jimin.”Taehyung folded his arms across his chest. “How interesting that the both of you are working on this together, when it was supposed to be Jimin’s project.”“That’s what work buddies are for,” Chen answered politely. “I only helped a little but Jimin put in a lot of effort on this project.Jimin panicked. “No, Taehyung. It’s not Chen’s fault. It’s-”“Or was it Jungkook?” Taehyung suggested, casting a glance at the young lawyer who had apparently noticed the commotion and was striding towards them. “You’ve been enlisting other people’s help when you’re supposed to take care of this project.”“I only asked them for their opinions. It’s not their fault,” Jimin said, worried that his incompetence would implicate others. “I should have verified the latest data before handing in to you.”“That’s enough,” Jungkook murmured, pinning Taehyung with a stern look. “Jimin has done excellent ground work. With so many changes going on in the market, he shouldn’t be faulted for a slight mishap. The proposal is still at the draft stages and we can always amend.”But Taehyung whipped the file away from Jimin and dumped it on Chen. “Since you’ve proclaimed to be the more experienced one, you will re-do the whole thing. I want it on my desk by the close of business today.”“Noted, Taehyung.” Chen said.An awful dread churned in Jimin’s stomach. “I will re-do the proposal. Please, Tae-”He stopped short when Jungkook gave him a silent, warning shake of his head. They watched Taehyung strode off.“What should I do?” Jimin hung his head low.Unperturbed, Jungkook assessed the situation and took charge. He said to Chen, “Just beef up the last section of that proposal. The rest can wait.”“Alright,” Chen nodded and resumed his work.“Come on,-” Jungkook gave an encouraging pat on Jimin’s shoulder. “-focus on what you need to do today, one thing at a time. Don’t let what Taehyung said get to you. I’ll speak to him.”“I don’t want to get you into trouble,” Jimin said.Jungkook gave him an amused look. “Trust me, I’ll whip his ass before he could even toss me into hot water.” ***“Chimmy ah, you sure you’re not gonna sleep soon? It’s late, you know,” said Hoseok, setting down a mug of warm camomile tea for Jimin.Jimin smiled from the coffee table which was jammed with stacks of documents and open books. “I’ll turn in as soon as I’m done with this report.” He returned to his laptop.Hoseok grabbed a packet of chips and flopped down on the couch. “Honestly, is that Kim Taehyung overworking you?”“Nah, I just want to check my stuff and make sure the data is correct.”Just then, Hoseok’s phone on the table vibrated with an incoming call. He stared wistfully at Yoongi’s profile and hit the reject button.“You’re not picking up his calls?” Jimin asked. “We are in the midst of a cold war.”Jimin’s fingers paused over the keyboard. This was news to him. Although he seldom had the chance for heart-to-heart talks with Hoseok these days due to work, he knew his friend was head over heels for the secretary.“Did something happen between the both of you?”Hoseok blew out a disappointed breath. “He accompanied me to Joongki’s fan gathering at Banji last evening, but sat through the event like a deadwood. When we were supposed to do some cheers, he refused to hold up the banner or participate. I understand that maybe he was shy and I should’ve prepped him for what was to come. Still… it would’ve been nice if he could at least feign some interest before my friends.”Jimin pursed his lips, wondering who deserved more sympathy – Hoseok or Yoongi. Even though Jimin’s interaction with Yoongi at work wasn’t frequent, he’d observed the secretary to be a serious and quiet person who was more capable than he’d let out. People in the company regarded him as the ‘third in command’, just after Taehyung and Jungkook. “Hmm…” Jimin tried to consider the situation objectively. “I think Yoongi’s just reserved about expressing himself outwardly.” “It’s not just that.” Hoseok munched on his chips. “He told me it was impossible to fathom why people could get lovestruck over someone who doesn’t know them. When I told him there are fans who support their idols but still manage to lead healthy lives, he gave me a dead fish look and said it was a phase which we would outgrow someday.”Jimin thought Yoongi’s monotone, deadpan delivery of words must be the culprit that ruffled Hoseok’s features. He said, “Maybe he’s overwhelmed by the fans’ enthusiasm? Not everyone shows how they feel on the outside. But I see your point – he could’ve been more sensitive in his choice of words.”“It’s insulting you know, when a guy you fancy doesn’t seem to respect the things you like. I need to rethink about us.”“Wait.” Jimin clapped a hand on Hoseok’s knee and looked him in the eye. “Please don’t say that you’re breaking up with him over this. He could be calling you to apologise,” he gestured with his chin toward the phone. “It sounds like a misunderstanding to me.”But Hoseok’s face was full of doubt. “I don’t know, Chimmy. Would you tolerate a guy who doesn’t place an equal importance in the things that matter to you?”Jimin’s gaze fell. He didn’t know if there was an appropriate answer to Hoseok’s question. He only knew that he’d rather be arguing with Taehyung over the merits of fandom cultures than seep in this animosity that the alpha seemed to be holding against him.Jimin said, “You may want to answer if he calls again. You shouldn’t make decisions in a rush.”Hoseok waved a flippant hand. “I know, I know. I’m just going to let him fret for a while first. Guys take you for granted if you give in to them easily.”A sigh escaped Jimin.  Hoseok could get relentlessly feisty when it came to putting boyfriends in their place. Over the years, Jimin had come to recognise that it was his friend’s way of protecting himself from being hurt in relationships.When Hoseok had retreated to the bedroom for the night, Jimin continued working.He yawned and the words began to swim before his eyes. The rigours of exhaustion from a full day of meetings and Chen’s departure from the company were overwhelming him. Unable to suppress his tiredness, Jimin laid his arms on the table and dropped his head. He would just take a ten-minute nap, he told himself.Ten minutes was all he needed… Jimin awoke with a hazy start. His eyes took in the mess of strewn papers and the dark screen on his laptop. The sun was bright outside. The digital clock on the wall read 10:00am.“Oh no!”He jumped to his feet, wincing at his stiff muscles and aching neck caused by bad sleeping position. He had slept through the night and was now late for work. He ran into the room, found Hoseok who was still tucked under the covers.Normally, his friend would have woken him up but it was Hoseok’s off-day today. Jimin rushed to get himself ready. He was already late and to make matters worse, he couldn’t find his boxers. It perplexed him that his clothes seemed to be disappearing these days.“What are you doing?” came Hoseok’s sleepy voice as he stirred awake.“My boxers…” Jimin rummaged the closet.  “Have you seen them?”“Could it be at Taehyung’s?”“It can’t be…” He hadn’t been spending much time with Taehyung that would require him to change his clothes often. He was still using the guestroom whenever he stayed at the alpha’s place.Jimin finally found his only pair of boxers wedged at the bottom. As he pulled on his work clothes and pressed down his messy hair, an uneasy feeling nagged at him. Today was going to be another tough day.And he was right.The moment Jimin rushed into the office, the tense atmosphere got to him.Tao’s and Chen’s workstations were stripped down, with files looking like they were ready to be packed. A few co-workers nearby engaged in hushed murmurs, no doubt talking about them. Some offered to help with the packing.“What’s going on?” Jimin asked, ignoring the tie which he was struggling to adjust mere seconds ago.There was a grimace on Tao’s face as he dumped some files into a box. “I’m under Finance now. Manpower requirements, they say. I only knew it an hour ago.”“What? Wait… this-” Jimin was too staggered to utter coherent words. He darted an apprehensive look at Chen, who was packing up his stuff. Unlike Tao, he appeared remarkably calm.“He’s leaving,” Tao said when Chen kept silent. “I don’t know what in the world is happening now.”“Chen, why?” Jimin swallowed, fearing the worst. He moved to stand before his work buddy. “Why?”Chen gave him a hard smile which Jimin knew was a request not to ask any more questions. Jimin watched with a sense of helplessness as his work buddies packed up for different reasons. This didn’t make sense.As he followed Chen to the lobby, Jimin finally broke the silence between them. “Have you spoken to HR? I mean, did they allow you to go just like that?”With a look of resignation, Chen said, “My time here is up, Jimin. I prefer to make a gracious exit.”Because this was both confusing and upsetting, Jimin pushed on with more questions. “What door? Was it Taehyung who made you leave? You said you were going to teach me more things. What will you do from now on? Have you found a new job?”“It doesn’t matter.” Chen pressed the lift button while balancing the box under his arm. “I don’t wish to overstay my welcome. There are many opportunities waiting for me outside.”“There has got to be a way out of this. Let’s talk to Taehyung. Or Jungkook,-  he felt a dash of hope. “Maybe we can ask Jungkook for help.”Chen blinked in surprise at Jimin’s insistence, then smiled faintly. “It’s all right, Jimin. The decision’s been made. I’ve been longing to take a break too. We can still keep in touch. I’m a call or text away if you need to talk.”Jimin was about to protest when Chen changed the subject. “Come for the stayover at my new place next Friday. I’ve got a new PlayStation and some games. Tao and a few others are coming too.”Seeing the quiet strength in Chen, Jimin nodded. “I’ll be there. But it’s sad to see you go… Can’t we do something about it?”Chen stepped forward and embraced Jimin with his free arm. “You’ll be fine on your own, but learn to stand up for yourself if you must. Don’t be afraid to speak yourself. Take care, Jimin.” He stepped into the lift and the doors closed on him.Just like that, Chen was gone. All it took was a word from Taehyung for his work buddy to be wiped out from this place.Standing alone in the lobby, dilemmas tore through Jimin’s mind, casting his thoughts in disarray. How did things spin out of control in such a short period?He stomped back to the office. He knew what he had to do. “Why did you do that?” The question was out of Jimin’s mouth the second he barged into Taehyung’s office.The alpha continued perusing a document without looking up. “I do many things, Jimin. You need to be more specific when you ask a question like this.”“Tao’s been transferred to Finance and Chen has left. Why?”Taehyung’s darkened gaze lifted to meet Jimin, causing him to flinch. “I do what I have to. You’re in no position to question me.”“Is this because of me? You can sack me and leave them alone–”“You stay where you are, and stop harbouring the delusion that everything I do has got to do with you.” Taehyung’s voice seethed with warning. “If you’re worried about the workload, Jeannie and Lisa have been assigned as your work buddies with immediate effect.”Jimin shut his eyes. “Please don’t hurt anyone because of me. Tao and Chen are nice people. They don’t deserve this.”“Not everyone who is nice to you is a good person,” Taehyung said.“Fine, do what you want,” Jimin breathed out, fighting to keep his emotions even. “But please… spare a thought for the people around you.”He was starting towards the door when Taehyung bulleted out of his chair. He seized Jimin’s arms and swing him around to face him.“I’m just protecting what’s mine,” Taehyung said.As Jimin didn’t want to give Taehyung any more excuse to belittle him more than he’d already did, he simply said, “I still have work to do. If you would excuse me.”For a fleeting moment, Taehyung looked as if someone had gutted him in the stomach. But that vulnerability in the alpha’s eyes was gone so quickly that Jimin was sure he must be imagining it.“Let me make this clear to you,” he warned Jimin. “Don’t ever come running to me with problems about other men again. And knock the bloody door before you enter.”Taehyung’s callousness singed a hole right through Jimin’s heart. The alpha wouldn’t care how much he was hurting the people around him, Jimin thought. Meanness was Taehyung’s armour and cruelty his sword. ***Defeat. Destroy. Wipe out.Taehyung gave himself free rein as he swung his racket and walloped the ball to the wall.Squash was possibly the only activity that could quell his frustrations now. The sounds of his sneakers squeaking and the ball hitting the wall reverberated in the court.No matter how hard he aimed for self-control, he was just a bad person. He loathed how he hard he was pushing Jimin, but it seemed like the boy had no inkling how the world worked. How Jimin had even made it to adulthood with that soft attitude of his was beyond Taehyung’s grasp. There were so many hard lessons the boy had to learn.The racket in his hand blurred in motion as he leaped sideways. Beads of sweat trickled down his forehead and arms, as adrenaline pumped his body. Taehyung welcomed the heat, the pain, and anything to keep his mind away from Jimin.A loud whistle distracted his focus. He glared towards the door and saw Jungkook strolled in, swinging a McDonald’s takeaway in his hand.Taehyung ignored him and regained his focus on the ball.After a while, Jungkook called out from the benches while enjoying his burger. “You’ll tear your muscles if you continue like this.”Taehyung stopped playing and moved towards the benches. “Eating is prohibited here.”Jungkook shrugged, took a slurp of his coke. He appeared unconcerned at the way Taehyung tossed his racket on an empty bench, making a loud noise. He said, “You’re not breaking laws as long as you remain unnoticed.”Taehyung gritted his teeth. “You came in a suit and bought food. If you’re not playing, why are you here?”Finishing off his burger, Jungkook flicked the crumpled wrapper into the takeaway bag and wiped his mouth. He gave Taehyung a steady eye. “You gonna work on your foul attitude or what? Because you’re being real shitty these days to everyone, especially Jimin.”Taehyung shut his eyes and exhaled. “I’m sorry.”“Say that to Jimin. Not me.”Taehyung threw a towel around his neck. “I’m training him to do higher level work. It’s how he climbs the corporate ladder. You shouldn’t be spoon feeding him.”“All I can say is that your other plan seems to be working, congrats. But the plans you had for Jimin- they suck and you know that,” Jungkook countered.“He needs to get a grip on himself and make it out there on his own.”“Make it out where? For what? For who?”Taehyung exhaled again. “This is for his own good. Stay out of this. I’ll deal with it.”“The last time you acted like everyone owned you a living was when Jin and Namjoon betrayed you. Do you think I couldn’t see it? That for god-knows-why, you are letting your past get to you when it comes to Jimin.”“I say I will deal with it.”“Fuck, Taehyung. You’ve never ridiculed your people in front of others no matter how bad they messed up. But you did that to Jimin – last afternoon at his desk when you threw out his work, and this morning at the meeting with Raydar.”The harsh truth was like a blade wedged into Taehyung’s ribs.When he didn’t retort, Jungkook continued, “The fact is, your relationship with Jimin is unusual. So what are you hoping to achieve by pushing him to his limits? Who is he to you? An employee? An escort? A friend? Or something more? Don’t look at me like that, I’m serious. No one can help you if you can’t even be truthful to yourself.”Taehyung clenched his fists. “I don’t need help. Save that for yourself.”Jungkook snatched the takeaway bag and stood up. “My time cost is too precious to be wasted on a grownup who acts like a three-year-old brat.”He was nearing the door when Taehyung said, “He lied to me.”The bleakness in his voice had Jungkook turning back. A dark look settled on his face as he asked Taehyung, “Have you talked to him? Asked him why he lied?”“A lie is a lie.”“What about yourself, then? Have you told Jimin about your past and why you set eyes on him in the first place? Does he even know why you are keeping him? Not saying anything is just as wicked as lying.”Taehyung pushed away the violence that threatened at the thoughts of his past. “You don’t understand. He doesn’t need to know everything.”“Jimin is not Jin. He may remind you of Jin in the past, but he is not Jin.”“I don’t need you to tell me that,” Taehyung said, at least assured in this aspect.“Then buck up and be the man Jimin needs you to be.” Jungkook raised his voice to match Taehyung’s stubbornness. “If you’re insecure and want to control every fucking thing, then you should let Jimin go before either of you falls deeper. But if you’re serious about him, then be better than the person you are now. You’ve gotta battle your demons and not let them create havoc, Taehyung.”Jungkook’s advice made him speechless.How could someone as rotten as him be worthy of another? ***V Inc’s annual D&D was held in the ballroom of the grand Shilla hotel.If it were a few weeks ago, Jimin would have been looking forward to a night of fun and entertainment with his colleagues.But not now, when so much had happened.All happy vibes had disappeared and Jimin approached the event like a job.When Heechul, who was the event host announced that it was party time and jumped into the dance floor, a crowd of V Inc’s employees joined in.Jimin sat alone at one of the large circular tables, his food untouched. He watched from a distant as his co-workers shook their bodies on the dance floor.At another table sat Yoongi, keeping to himself. Apart from Jimin, the secretary was probably the only soul in this room whose spirit was down in the dumps. If Yoongi were upset about his tiff with Hoseok, his face didn’t reveal much about his feelings.Jimin had wanted to speak to Yoongi, sound him out but it seemed like the latter was hesitant about sharing his woes. And so, Jimin had walked past his table earlier on and slipped a written note into his hand. It contained a list of snacks Hoseok liked to eat whenever he was in a bad mood. Hopefully, Yoongi would get the hint.Taehyung was several tables away, entertaining a few clients who were invited as guests. A faint smile playing on his lips, the alpha looked cool and unhurried as he sipped on his champagne. Every bit the CEO.Jimin was relieved that Taehyung wasn’t roping him in to mingle with the clients. He wasn’t sure if he could handle more client engagements. He threw back his champagne, felt the bubbling liquid burning in his throat.“Come on Jimin!” Jungkook came over and pulled him out of his chair “A night like this is not meant to be alone.”“Oh… no…” Jimin freaked out a little as Jungkook led him to the dance floor, to the center of the blasting music. He shrieked with surprise when Jungkook caught him by the waist and dipped him low, garnering cheers from the rest. Jimin’s head almost touched the floor and the room turned upside down in his vision. For a second, he locked eyes with Taehyung, who was observing from the table but making no move.Jimin laughed as Jungkook twirled him round and round in a showy tango. All he had to do was to follow Jungkook’s lead. When the Jungkook spun him around again, he laughed harder, feeling deliriously carefree for the first time in weeks.On and on they danced and soon Jimin was jumping on his toes, cheering with everyone else. It didn’t matter that his inner feelings were wrecked. This was a small respite from the stress that was bottling him. He deserved a breather.“You’re amazing!” Jimin exclaimed over the music, breathless and flushed from all the dancing.Jungkook winked. “I picked up tango when I was in the States.”Along with the rest on the dance floor, they cheered and clapped when Tao did a backward flip. It was heartening to see that Tao wasn’t as affected by his transfer as he’d been earlier the week. Jimin wished however, that Chen was here with them to complete the picture.But his smile froze when Taehyung strode towards the dance floor.Just when Jimin wanted to skate behind Jungkook, a few ladies from Marketing dragged the young lawyer with them into a group disco.Expressionless, Taehyung moved past others, making his way to Jimin.Jimin’s chest contracted. He wasn’t ready to talk to the alpha. He backed away, using other humans as shield. Taehyung was about to close in when an excited Heechul skated in between them and moved his arms like windshield vipers. It seemed to annoyed the hell out of the alpha but gave Jimin room for escape.“Dance with me, Mr. Kim,” cooed a young lady whom Jimin recognised as a VIP client.“My pleasure,” said Taehyung. If he were annoyed, his smile and gentlemanly voice did a good job of concealing it.Jimin seized the opportunity to escape. He returned to his table and sat there alone for the rest of the night with champagne refills as company. As quickly as it came, the happy buzz he’d felt a moment ago faded away. As the night drew to a close, everyone returned to their tables. Heechul made an announcement on stage “… and we’ve come to the moment we’ve been waiting for – the character design contest for Aurora Stars! Our panel of judges tore their heads over 100 designs submitted. I shall now announce the results. The winner of the contest goes to none other than…” He mimicked a drumroll sound and exclaimed…“Park Jimin!”Jimin’s jumped in his chair at the mention of his name.A picture of Merman Taehyung filled the giant screen, with Jimin’s full name at the bottom and a ‘winner’ flag blinking beside it. His heart plummeted as his eyes widened, staring in disbelief at the enlarged version of the sketch he’d drawn weeks ago while lounging with Taehyung at the poolside.A collective gasp and ‘ooh-hahs’ whistled around the room, followed by a booming rouse of cheers and catcalls. Co-workers around the table congratulated him. “Bravo, Jimin!” Tao slapped him on his back. “I didn’t see it in you to put that out!”“I- I didn’t submit anything,” Jimin said, his voice feeling far away. He pushed his chair back and stood. He looked around, at the several pairs of eyes smiling at him - some laughing, some teasing, and the rest reading him in a new light.His eyes found Taehyung. From where he sat, the alpha lifted his champagne flute with a cocky smile. 
No… it can’t be. He can’t be doing this to me.
Jimin was feeling sick. Disgusted.“Come up here, Jimin. You are the man of the night!” Heechul called from the stage, garnering a fresh wave of hoots and cheers.Instead of moving to the stage, Jimin turned and scrambled for the exit.“He’s just shy.” Someone commented as he wound his way through the tables and fled the venue. Jimin staggered his way outside, into the cold autumn night. He stood still like a tree, misery rooting him to the ground.Moments later, he heard the faint sound of footsteps approaching. A pair of arms enveloped him from behind, into that familiar body warmth. “That’s a terrific piece you have out there.” Taehyung sounded more cheerful than he’d been for a while.“Leave me alone.” Jimin mumbled, edging himself away from Taehyung. He hurried down the street, ignoring the chilly breeze blowing against his face.“What’s the matter with you?”Ignoring Taehyung, Jimin accelerated his pace. He almost broke into a sprint when Taehyung wretched him back.“You’ve been acting weird all night,” Taehyung said, all traces of humour gone.“Let go of me.” Jimin tried to wrestle himself free but Taehyung’s grip was unyielding.“Stop acting like a child. Tell me what’s wrong,” the alpha demanded.“You know what is wrong.”“Look, if you’re embarrassed about that Merman you drew-”“That’s it!” Jimin hurled his arms in the air drunkenly. “I told you before not to touch my sketchbook! I told you…” his voice dropped and turned wobbly, “… that my drawings in it are personal.”In an instant, the perplexity in Taehyung’s face was replaced by realisation. “You think I put that drawing up.”“You want to humiliate me, to punish me because I lied to you. When will you ever stop?”Taehyung glared at him. “You believe I would do put that drawing up, knowing that it’s important and personal to you. You believe I would do that.”Confusion sank in. Jimin wanted to cry. “I don’t know what to believe anymore.”The harshness in Taehyung’s eyes cooled down a few notches as he said, “Tonight is the first time I see that drawing. I thought you submitted it to give me a surprise.”The glasses of champagne which Jimin’d downed earlier only worsened his headache. “I didn’t,” he whispered. “Why would I share personal stuff in the public like that?”“I’m going to find out who’s behind this and make that idiot pay,” Taehyung said. “Have you shown your sketchbook to anyone?” “No no no!” Jimin covered his ears with his hands.  If he couldn’t even show his sketchbook to Taehyung, why would he show it to anyone else? The alpha simply failed to get it. With such a personal part of him being exposed to the public, Jimin just wanted to go back to his own apartment and curl up in his own bed, where nobody could invade his personal space.Sensing his distress, Taehyung put a hand on Jimin’s arm. “You’ve had too much to drink. Let’s go home now. You’ll feel better after some rest.”
No, not his home.  
But Taehyung was already hailing a cab and pulling Jimin with him. The minute they entered the house, Taehyung leaned Jimin against the door and kissed him.As they kissed in the dark, Jimin’s hand felt for the switch on the wall.Light filled the space.Taehyung’s gaze held a conflict of emotions, steely and yet somehow soft.“Taehyung, I…” Hands on Taehyung’s chest, Jimin wanted to push him away, to tell him that he was weary and needed to be left alone.But the alpha asked, “Stay with me tonight, will you?”At the sadness in Taehyung’s eyes, the words caught in Jimin’s throat and left a bad taste. The thought of leaving Taehyung alone was unbearable. He gave a small nod.Jimin’s feet left the floor as Taehyung swept him up and carried him upstairs. He let Taehyung undressed him and laid him down on the soft sheets.Taehyung made love to him, slowly and delicately as though they were both broken dolls. He murmured words of comfort into Jimin’s ears. The alpha’s voice carried a sorrowful quality, as if he wasn’t just assuring Jimin, but also himself.Jimin endured it all, in his quiet, nearly shattered way.At some point, tears glistened his eyes. Trapped beneath the alpha, Jimin quivered with uncontained emotions. The strong and solid body that was once his safe harbour now felt like a cell that kept him captive.Taehyung brushed strands of hair away from Jimin’s face. He looked miserable as he whispered, “Talk to me, Jimin. Don’t shut me away.”
But who was the one who shut the other first?
Jimin couldn’t stop his tears from flowing. He couldn’t tell Taehyung what was in his heart.
So overwhelming, so suffocating, but I can’t bring myself to leave him… Why?
How could he let Taehyung know that everything that was wrong stemmed from the nature of their relationship, that Taehyung’s ways were stifling him? What did he even mean to Taehyung?Like a knife dragging across his skin, this fake love was drawing blood, torturing Jimin’s sense of self-worth.“Talk to me… please,” Taehyung begged, brushing Jimin’s tears away.But Jimin wouldn’t, couldn’t.Cradling Taehyung’s face with his small hands, he lifted his lips and pressed kisses on the alpha’s forehead, his nose, his lips. If anything, kisses were the only answers Jimin could give. He continued hugging Taehyung.  Guilt, pain, and even fear – Jimin could feel them in every thrust which Taehyung made.  With their bodies connected but souls broken apart, Jimin couldn’t remember the last time the both of them had truly laughed.He closed his eyes to shut away the heaviness filling his heart.Physically, he was smaller and weaker than Taehyung.But he would protect the alpha, until he was no longer needed.He kept his promise and held onto Taehyung all night. Even though he was falling apart inside.+++End

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Talk to me, Jimin. Don’t shut me away…
Those words had been painful to hear, nearly devastating as they’d escaped Taehyung’s lips. The alpha had kissed Jimin last night as though he needed saving.Maybe they both needed saving.Taehyung’s eyes had carried a sadness beyond words. Jimin could feel that Taehyung was breaking inside, suffering on his own just like he was, but for reasons he couldn’t fathom.However, that sense of helplessness in Taehyung disappeared this morning without a trace. It was as though the vulnerable moments shared between them last night had been nothing but a bad dream.Taehyung was once again that aloof, high-power CEO he had been these days whenever he talked to Jimin. That invisible wall was back, putting distance between them.Try talking to him again, a voice whispered inside Jimin’s head.Despite the solemn atmosphere that hanged over the breakfast table, Jimin nudged himself to take the first step.“My promise still holds, you know,” he said quietly, spreading butter on his toast.Taehyung glanced up from his phone, indignance written all over his face as he studied Jimin. “What promise?”“I don’t know if you still remember what I told you in Jeju… that if you need a listening ear, I’m here.”Jimin’s heart thumped nervously as he watched the muscle in Taehyung’s jaw worked. The disdain in the alpha’s voice was palpable. “You amaze me, Jimin. You think you can solve every fucking problem in this world when you can’t even manage a simple marketing pitch.”Taehyung’s words sliced through Jimin, like a spear being hurled towards him. He’d chosen the wrong timing. He shouldn’t have backed off last night when Taehyung had asked him what was wrong. Had he not shut the alpha away, they would probably had talked things out. It was too late now. They had lost each other again.Jimin put his toast down, all appetite gone. “Sorry. I wanted to-”“You just have to mind your own business,” Taehyung said, albeit less harshly this time. He downed the rest of his protein shake and got to his feet. “I have a meeting outside with some Russian investors and won’t be in the office today.”“Do you need me to come with you?” Jimin stood up too, watching Taehyung throw a suit over his shoulders and buttoning up.“You have a ton of catching up to do with your existing projects. Do yourself and the company a favour, Jimin. Stop offering a helping hand when your plate is full.”Jimin could feel his ears reddening. He turned his face away so Taehyung wouldn’t see the damage he’d inflicted on his self-esteem. “My apologies for not being up-to-date with my work. I…I just thought you might need someone to take the minutes.”“Yoongi will do that. You are excused from meetings from now on.”“Why?” Jimin glanced back at him.“So that we can all be spared the agony of you looking like a lost kid who wants to go home. Just take care of your pending projects. They are more than enough to keep you busy at the rate you’re going.”Taehyung’s clipped tone gave Jimin the notion that the alpha had given up on him.“Okay,” was all Jimin could say.For a moment, they stood staring at each other. Taehyung’s eyes were cold, but searching. Something about them told Jimin that he had more to say but wasn’t going to.To his mild surprise, the alpha remarked, “You look tired. Take a day off today.”“I can still work.”Taehyung let out an exasperated breath. “As you please. If you have nothing else to say, I’m making a move.”Jimin watched his retreating back, a common view of the alpha these days.Once again, Taehyung had left him behind, confused and hurt. He didn’t miss the sound of the gates opening and Taehyung’s car pulling away in the driveway moments later.*While making coffee in the office pantry, Jimin’s mind shuffled between the tasks on his to-do list and his conversation with Taehyung earlier in the morning.Reality slapped him in the face. Even though he was trying his utmost best at work, he would never be good enough in Taehyung’s eyes. His efforts didn’t matter if they couldn’t produce results.Jimin missed those times when things between them were simpler; when Taehyung, despite his domineering attitude would still indulge him from time to time; when meals were filled with laughter and heartfelt conversations; when their weekend evenings whizzed by with video games, and Taehyung would let Jimin win on purpose. Those happy moments were now distant memories. Now, Jimin always felt like he was walking on eggshells whenever he was with Taehyung. He would never know when the alpha would blow up.Was there really no way for them to return to those happier times?Spooning sugar into his coffee, Jimin thought of the text which he’d received from Chen during lunch. The stayover at his new place would be this Friday. Under Jimin’s escorting contract with Taehyung however, his Fridays and weekends belonged exclusively to the alpha. How was he going to excuse himself? How was he going to tell Taehyung that he needed that one evening away from him?There were too many questions and no answers. Jimin was lost in a maze, struggling to find his way out.“That poor mug’s gonna get diabetes.” Jungkook’s voice jolted him back to his surroundings. Sugar scattered on the counter top. Jimin winced at the heaps of sugar in his mug.Hands in pockets, Jungkook regarded him with an easy smile. “Want to join me for coffee break?” Jungkook took Jimin to the café across the street and ordered hot mochas for themselves.They sat at a table by the glass wall. At four in the afternoon, they were the only patrons. The weather was turning chilly, and the cosiness of the place enveloped them with warmth and comfort.For a quiet moment, they sipped on their mochas and watched people bustle by in the street. No words were exchanged, but Jungkook’s company put Jimin at ease. To Jimin, he was more of a friend than a superior at work. The young lawyer’s calm and assurance in the face of pressure were a balm to Jimin’s nerves.Jungkook set his mocha down, a subtle signal that conversation was about to begin.  “How are you feeling?”Jimin was hesitant to talk about his problems, but he knew lying was pointless. He said, “A little overwhelmed, but still manageable.” Then, an unnerving thought as to why Jungkook had brought him here struck him. “Did I mess up my work again?”Jungkook folded his arms on the table, an affronted scowl on his face. “You believe I’d take you out for coffee just to give you a telling off?” “Um…you haven’t scolded me so far, not even when I made grave errors.” “Everyone makes mistakes, even the President of the United States. No one is infallible. But you learn from your mistakes.”“I’m too slow when it comes to picking up my mistakes, moreover learning from them.”“We all have different learning curves,” Jungkook countered encouragingly. “Every individual is good at different things, though we tend to strive better when we pick something that ignites our passion – which is why you’re struggling to cope. Business pitches and networking are not things you enjoy doing, and V Inc unfortunately has a shitload of them.”Jimin stowed his hands under the table. A lousy feeling eclipsed his mood as he muttered, “Taehyung has removed me from meetings and networking functions. I’m just not on the same league as the both of you. Whether I talk or don’t talk to clients, I make the situation uncomfortable.”Truth was, no one really wanted to listen to him. To Jimin, nothing was more awkward, more tedious than holding conversations with strangers about the weather and the stock market.Jungkook rubbed his chin, his eyes roaming above Jimin’s head. “Ah… I see dark clouds above you, all that self-defeating thoughts and denial of your capabilities.” The humour in his eyes faded as they lowered to Jimin’s. “Where’s Cheerful Jimin? We gotta find him back.”Jimin smiled weakly. “I’ll be fine after a good sleep.”“All right, let’s try this again. Ask me anything.”Jimin blinked. “What?”“You can ask me any question, and I’ll try to answer them if I can.”As there was no judgement, but only genuine compassion in the way Jungkook said it, Jimin allowed himself to open up. “I need a straight guy’s opinion. Is it normal for guy friends to do buddy stayovers?”Surprised at his question, Jungkook tried to suppress his grin. “Jimin ah, what makes you think I don’t like guys?”“Oh-oh-” Jimin fumbled, almost knocking over his mug.He was saved from prolonged embarrassment when Jungkook said, “It depends though. Are there any other guy friends joining the stayover, or just you and your guy friend?”“Yes, he’s invited others too.”“Then I guess it should be fine. I’m not saying that you cannot have alone time with a friend, but sometimes, you’re being too nice and it makes people either worry or want to take advantage of you.”“Is being nice a bad thing?” Jimin asked, remembering Taehyung’s warning about nice people. Not everyone who is nice to you is a good person, the alpha had once said this to him.“It all depends, but too much of something is not always healthy,” Jungkook said with concern in his voice. “Do let Taehyung know your whereabouts should you decide to stay at your friend’s place. He may be an arse but he has your interests at heart.”At the mention of the alpha’s name, Jimin fell silent. He lifted his mug and drank, hoping to distract himself.“How are you getting along with Taehyung these days?” Jungkook asked without missing a beat.Things between him and Taehyung must have turned so grave that it had become impossible for someone as sharp-eyed as Jungkook not to notice.A tightness lodged inside Jimin’s throat as he said, “I have this feeling that something is bothering Taehyung, but he’s not telling me what. I’m in no position to pry into his affairs anyway. It’s not like we are in a normal relationship.”Jungkook reached out for Jimin’s hand. “There are many things which Taehyung might not be ready to share with anyone else yet, including you. You may find him acting out of sorts recently, even unpredictable but that’s because-”“Because I lied to him.” Jimin put in before Jungkook could finish. “I lied to him once and everything between us has been going downhill since then.”Jungkook gave his hand a tight squeeze. “That’s not it. Well, maybe some of it but not its entirety. My cousin is an emotionally constipated twat whose actions tend to contradict his intentions, and you’re an innocent party caught up in this whirlwind. It’s a trying time for Taehyung, be it work or personal affairs. So don’t get too affected if he’s been acting out of sorts with you. It’s not your problem.”Now Jimin was worried. “Has something bad happened to the company? Is Taehyung in trouble?”Jungkook’s lips tightened. “You know the rules for classified info, Jimin. I can’t tell you more than I already have. But trust me, everything is in good hands, at least for the work bit.”“Then why tell me at all?” Jimin said, his head aching. “It’s confusing, when I only get bits and pieces of information.” “I’m telling you what I can, because I want you to know that it wouldn’t be easy should you decide to continue with Taehyung. Everyone comes with a baggage and Taehyung’s would take someone who’s strong and resolute enough to help him unpack. You have the tougher end of the bargain, but it’s ultimately your decision to make.”
Baggage. To help him unpack.
For all that had happened and at the rate Jimin was screwing up things, he wondered if he was adding weight to Taehyung’s baggage.Jungkook leaned forward, watching Jimin. “It’s worse than I thought, isn’t it? As your friend and Taehyung’s buddy, I try not to interfere with your affairs. I always believe issues in relationships are better sorted out between the parties involved. But if you need me to talk to him again, I will.”“No.” Jimin cut in. “I… I can manage.”“Are you sure you would be okay?”Jimin forced himself to smile, sunnier. He sounded too cheerful as he said, “Of course. Why won’t I be okay?”Jungkook sighed. “I see… stubborn like my cousin.”* ** “I’m attending dinner with some investors from New York this Friday. You can stay in and order whatever you like.” Taehyung said as he kicked off his shoes at the threshold. He approached the bar and peered into the fridge.“Orange juice for you?” he asked, but before Jimin could reply, he had pulled a can and opened it for him.“Thanks.” Jimin took the drink. He watched Taehyung helped himself to some beer. Maybe it’s a good opportunity to tell him now. “Don’t worry about me. I have already made plans for Friday night.”“Plans?” Taehyung’s brows winged up.Taking a sip from his can, Jimin tried to sound as casual as possible. “Chen bought a new PlayStation VR and has invited us for a stayover at his place this Friday. I’m joining them, so I’ll see you on Saturday. I can stay here until Tuesday morning.”“You’re not going.” Taehyung said. His fingers crushed the empty can into an unidentifiable shape.“Why?”“Because I say so.” Taehyung tossed the can into the bin and strode towards the living area.Jimin followed right behind him. “I’d like to go and… spend some time with my friends.”
I need a breather from you.
 Taehyung whirled around. “Friends,” he hissed at Jimin’s face as though it was a dirty word. “Stayover at his house. That guy has a fucking death wish.”“It’s a buddy stayover. Tao and Heechul will be there too.”“A gangbang, then?” He loosened his tie in a violent jerk and tossed it on the sofa. “Becoming adventurous after all I’ve shown you?”Jimin flinched. “Don’t say things you don’t mean.”Taehyung undid two buttons on his shirt. “If a gangbang is what you’re looking for, why not we ask Jungkook and Yoongi to join us in bed tonight?”“You know I won’t do that!”“You’re coming here straight after work on Friday. Yoongi will drive you here.”“You can’t stop me from going.”“Try it.” A challenge.Jimin’s head throbbed, and he was certain it was from both a lack of sleep and talking to Taehyung. “I’ll talk to you again when you’ve calmed down.”Swearing, Taehyung grabbed Jimin’s arms before he could walk out on him. Jimin let out a startled yelp as the can slipped from his hand. It rolled on the floor, its contents spilling out.He yielded a step but Taehyung held him firmly. “It seems you’ve forgotten that I’m the one who pays for your services. Say you will come here on Friday.”Jimin hadn’t expected to feel so much hurt, but Taehyung’s words did it. He put up his own resistance, met Taehyung’s eyes with his own defiance. “I say I will see you on Saturday.” Arsenal flashed in those eyes. Without warning, Taehyung wrenched Jimin forward and took his mouth roughly. His brash kisses possessed Jimin with savageness as his strength backed Jimin against the wall. “Stop-” Jimin cried out but his plea was muffled by Taehyung’s mouth. He turned his head sideway, only for the alpha to reclaim him with more force. Jimin gasped, beating his hands at Taehyung’s shoulders.“Please… stop!”As if a spell had been broken, Taehyung released Jimin and backed off.Shock registered on the alpha’s face.“Jimin, I-” he stammered, and moved forward.“Don’t touch me.” Jimin held up finger, trying hard to control his breathing and the tears that threatened.Taehyung went still.“For once, listen to what I have to say, Kim Taehyung,” Jimin said. “Your desire for control is suffocating. What I wear, what I do and where I go, they are all about you. Even what I eat. Yes, I said I like steaks and strawberry shortcakes, but that doesn’t mean I want to eat them at every expensive restaurant you bring me to. You get angry when I make new friends or plans that don’t involve you. With you, I can’t have a choice-”His chest constricted as he continued, “I’m finding it difficult to breathe whenever I’m with you, Taehyung. Even if I’m just your escort, I… I can’t take it anymore…”Taehyung remained where he was, but Jimin thought he saw devastation in the alpha’s eyes.It was a long time before Taehyung spoke. His voice was deadly quiet as he said, “Get out.”Jimin’s head snapped up.Taehyung levelled him with a hard look. “If being with me is making you suffer, then get out of my sight.”The gravity of what Taehyung had just said hit Jimin like a blow. He was never important to Taehyung at all. He was of no value to him.Jimin’s mind went dead, like someone had pulled the plug off. In a daze, he moved to grab his bag. He slipped on his shoes, summoning strength to keep a steady composure.His feelings matter too. He was tired of pretending otherwise.Without looking at Taehyung, Jimin said with as much dignity as he could muster, “Your instructions are noted, Mr. Kim. I shall make my move.” And then, he tossed out the last thing on his mind, the one thing that hurt him the worst. “I never amount much to you anyway.”He ran out of the front door and down the street, so that Taehyung would not see the huge tears that rolled down from his eyes.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

A broken, crappy mood settled over Jimin.Barely two days had crawled by since he’d run out of Taehyung’s house. That evening, Jimin had rushed back to his apartment, into the arms of an alarmed Hoseok.While consoling a teary Jimin, Hoseok had muttered all sort of curses imaginable at Taehyung. His friend stood fiercely loyal to him, convinced that it was through no fault of his own that Taehyung had dumped him. They’d then ordered pizza for dinner, which Jimin’d shoved down two bites before pushing it away.Jimin’d had tried to recover as best as he could, mindful that his misery would only propel Hoseok’s animosity towards Taehyung. Beneath his sadness lurked a consciousness that things would turn ugly if Hoseok blew up. It was over between him and Taehyung, but that didn’t mean he should implicate others.Still, there was no universal manual for coping with heartbreaks. That night, he’d cried to sleep. Who would have imagined that a guy he’d known for three months could break his heart like that?But Kim Taehyung did it. Quick and ruthless.Dragging himself out of bed in the morning felt like wasted effort. Jimin called in sick to work. He drifted through the day in his apartment without purpose. Lazing on the couch with a bowl of sweetened lychees on his lap, he mindlessly flipped through channels on the TV.His thumb paused on the control button when Taehyung’s face appeared on the screen in what looked like a CNN live interview. At the sight of the alpha, Jimin’s heart squeezed without warning. The lychee in his mouth suddenly tasted like bile.Taehyung was leaning sideway in his chair, legged crossed and smiling with a confident charm. The alpha’s relaxed composure was a world apart from Jimin’s dishevelled self. Even though the TV was in mute, Taehyung’s body language and the way the host smiled admiringly at him made it clear that he was talking about his achievements.Taehyung’s face betrayed nothing about how he’d felt since their breakup. Or maybe the alpha felt nothing towards him at all.Just then, Hoseok stomped out of the bedroom and snatched the remote-control away.Jimin tried not to look at his friend, who was getting impatient. The two friends had been down in the dumps in their respective relationships.He muttered without bothering to conceal his restlessness. “What happened? Is Yoongi still not picking up your calls?”“Come with me.” Hoseok pulled at Jimin’s hand, willing him to get up. It was then Jimin noticed that his friend was dressed and ready. “Where are we going?”“That idiot’s not going to chuck you away like this. We’re going to thrash things out with him.”Jimin knew Hoseok was referring to Taehyung. He let out a slow and long breath, willing himself not to break down again. “Forget it, Hobi. It’s over. I’m not seeing him again.” “You are drowning in misery with a bowl of canned lychees – your third sugary bowl for goodness sake but what about him?” Hoseok stabbed a finger towards the TV screen. “He’s out there, smugly proclaiming his accomplishments. You’ve got to take something from him instead of returning empty handed.” “I…” Jimin straightened himself, the giddiness in his head an aching hum. “There’s no point crying over spilt milk. I don’t wish to cause a scene.”Hoseok’s patience waned. “So, making yourself sick and pitiful is your grand plan for dealing with this.”Jimin fell silent. He returned to the screen. Taehyung was sharing something with the female host, who was apparently in awe and blushing.“If you’re not going to find him, I am.” Hoseok declared.A bubble of resentment edged its way into Jimin’s mood. At the very least, he was hoping that his best friend would understand his situation.“Can you leave me alone?” Jimin shot back. He moved to take the remote-control back but Hoseok held it away.‘You have two choices now. One, come with me to see that bastard. Two, continue to be a cry baby at home while I deal with him.”“And then what? If we talk to Taehyung, what comes after that?”“We want a proper explanation, and compensation. He’s not going to dump you and walk away like that.”Dump you and walk away like that. The truth opened up another wound.“Which is exactly what all this has been to you, isn’t’ it?” Jimin said acidly. “It doesn’t matter that Taehyung has never looked at me the same way I did. Because all that matters are that I get to sleep with him and he pays me well, right? It might be the case for you, but not for me.”Hoseok looked stunned. “You have no clue what you’re saying. If it wasn’t for me, you wouldn’t even have landed the escorting job. If it wasn’t for me, you wouldn’t have met Kim Taehyung. Now that things have turned sour, it’s my responsibility to see that you don’t walk away with nothing.”“Not everyone wants to take things your pace, Hobi. You’re too fast, too aggressive. Not all relationships work like that.”“This is not about me.” Hoseok’s attitude was unyielding. He plucked the bowl of lychees away from Jimin and slapped it on the coffee table. “We’re going to see him whether you like it or not. I’m going find him and I’m going to – well, since I can’t kill him, I can at least tear his balls out.”“Would you just let me be?” Jimin shoved to his feet to face Hoseok, almost shouting. “Stop meddling with my business. You go on the offense to protect yourself, but I don’t need you to do that for me.”“You are too weak, Chimmy.”“And you’re too self-centred, which is probably why Yoongi is not picking up your calls. You never thought of his feelings when you thrusted that Joongki banner on him and expected him to cheer like deranged fanboy. He was trying to make up to you, but you ignored him and used up his good will.”Hoseok stiffened. “People step over you if you let them. I don’t remember my best friend being a coward.”That was a low blow, enough to have Jimin vibrating with temper. He hurled it back at Hoseok, “Yes, I’m a coward but what about you? By protecting yourself with meanness, you push people away. You write people off when you don’t get your way, which is likely why you’ve had tons of boyfriends but each relationship of yours never lasted over two months.”All bitterness oozed out of Hoseok’s face. The stupefied, hellish hurt in his eyes made Jimin regretted in an instant. He’d overstepped the mark.Freaking out, Jimin reached out for Hoseok’s arm but the latter whipped it away from him.“Hobi, I’m sorry- I didn’t meant to-” It was too late to apologise. The tears in Hoseok’s eyes spoke volumes.“Hack this.” Hoseok’s voice wavered. “Fine, I’ll leave you alone as you wish.” He snatched his bag and headed for the front door.“Please, Hobi-” Jimin followed closely behind. “-I shouldn’t’ have said-”“In return, I ask that you leave me alone too,” Hoseok said without turning back. He yanked the door open and stormed out.The last time they had gotten into a big fight was when… well, Jimin couldn’t remember. But he understood Hoseok well enough to know that it was better to leave him alone when he was fuming. And hurt.His best friend had just walked out on him, and it was all his fault.On the screen, the interview with Taehyung was still in progress.Feeling like thrash, Jimin slumped back into the couch and rocked. **After the interview, Taehyung brushed off his other business obligations and returned home straight from the TV station. All that smiles he’d had to fake in the name of professionalism was wearing him out. Inside him, a storm was raging. Uncontained and wild.Since his fight with Jimin, he could hardly sleep a wink. Images of their argument and what he’d done to the boy kept replaying in his mind like a bad movie. He should have done this long ago, Taehyung had realised. He should let Jimin go and find someone who would never treat him the way he had. Jimin’s happiness wasn’t his to give.Taehyung retreated to his study and immersed himself in his business affairs for the remaining afternoon. He was in the midst of a delicate Skype negotiation with an Australian tech company when Jungkook crashed in.“What kind of shit storm have you unleashed?” His cousin demanded.Unnerved by the sudden intrusion, Taehyung politely ended the Skype conversation and palmed down his laptop. His cold eyes flicked to Jungkook. “Weather’s fine the last time I checked.”Jungkook stepped forward. “Jimin called in sick and tendered his resignation. By a fucking e-mail to HR. They told me his last day is tomorrow. What the hell?”Taehyung’s face didn’t show the agony that had knifed him when word had come in from HR hours ago. Since he couldn’t keep Jimin without hurting him, he’d decided to let him go. It was painful, but inevitable.“Jimin’s free to do what he wants,” he said. “Our capitalistic society encourages free labour movement.”“Whatever that’s going on between the both of you is getting out of hand,” Jungkook said. “Be the gentleman, apologise to him.”“If he wants to leave, no one can stop him. HR will see that he’s given a proper send off and compensate him handsomely.”Jungkook’s eyes widened with incredulity. He glanced around, as if hoping to find a brick to hurl at the alpha. “Whatever,” he spat, aiming a furious look at Taehyung. “You’re not suitable for Jimin anyway, forcing him to do things he dislikes. You’re doing to him exactly what your father was doing to you.”The statement rattled Taehyung and had him pushing to his feet. He’d never considered the gravity of his doings to be comparable to his father’s. He growled, “Don’t compare me to Dad. I’m not like him. Nobody forced Jimin. He chose to do what I gave him. The least I expected from him was the decency to follow through.”“Goddammit, Taehyung,” Jungkook fired back. “When you followed your father’s instructions, was it totally out of free will or were you hoping to gain his approval? Can’t you see why Jimin’s doing all these? He just wants you to like him!”Jungkook’s words rammed Taehyung like a sucker punch.“No. It can’t be,” Taehyung muttered. His stomach roiled and folded. And roiled again. “It can’t be.” Jimin couldn’t have liked him. Nobody was supposed to like a monster.Jungkook’s eyes hardened. “If I were you, I’d run out there and find Jimin back. I’d tell him how sorry I was for being an intolerable asshole. If I were you, I wouldn’t let him go without trying. Jimin’s worth it, and you know that.”“You’re not me.” Taehyung said stubbornly.At this point, Jungkook looked like his temper was about to detonate, but he bit it down. “Nothing gets drilled into that dogged head of yours. All right then, do as you please.” He stalked towards the door and tossed the last words over his shoulder.“I’m glad I’m not like you, Kim Taehyung.”The door slammed shut. **In the end, fighting with Hoseok was worse than breaking up with Taehyung.  To Jimin, Taehyung was a man who broke his heart. The man who, despite his best efforts, decided to cast him aside.But Hoseok… he was like family. Since childhood, his best friend had been there to witness his highs and lows, and sheltered him from bullies. And yet, Jimin had said all those horrible things to his friend.The following evening, Jimin returned to find his apartment empty and quiet. He set down the box of personal belongings which he’d packed from the office. His last day at work had been plain sailing. There were no dramas, only a few obligatory goodbye hugs from well-intentioned colleagues. Tao and Heechul had bought him a cake, igniting a spark of comfort in Jimin. There was also Jungkook, who’d came over to sound him out. Though the young lawyer looked regretful, he respected Jimin’s decision. Jungkook had even called Jimin a cab home, so that he didn’t have to squeeze in the train with the rush-hour crowd.At least there were people at work who still cared about him as a person. And that was enough. But Jimin hadn’t seen Taehyung. Word was that the alpha hadn’t been in the office the entire week. Perhaps this was for the best.Jimin flicked on the kitchen lights and found Hoseok’s written note on the fridge. 
‘Staying at Yoongi’s for a couple days. There are beef stew and rice in the fridge.

PS: Remember to put out the garbage.

-Hobi’
 Well, at least Hoseok had made up with Yoongi, Jimin found some comfort in the thought. He tried to compose an apology text. As his thumbs hovered hesitantly over the keypad, guilt continued chewing at him. He deleted his half-baked text and set his phone aside.Jimin heated up the stew and rice, and sat alone at the table. He swallowed food, along with his tears that had unconsciously slipped out. After a long and hot shower, he put out the garbage and sorted out his box of personal belongings to pass time. The throbbing at the base of his skull intensified. He swallowed two painkillers and curled himself up in bed.Before the drowsiness overtook him, he managed to send a text to Hoseok. 
Dear Hobi,

It was childish and stupid of me to say those things to you.

I just want to let you know that I’m sorry, and I love you.

Waiting for you to come home,

Chimmy <3
 An overwhelming tidal of loneliness swept over Jimin. Lying on the bed in the dark room, he hugged himself tightly and closed his eyes.Sleep was all he could do now. *Taehyung sat on the couch with his legs propped up on the coffee table, working away on his laptop. For the entire week, he had been setting up meetings online and delegating work from home.The intercom at the front door sounded. Moments later, Jungkook appeared in the living room.He eyed Taehyung, paused for a heartbeat before saying, “I regret my choice of words to you yesterday, though you are still full of shit.”Taehyung gave him a tired grin. “I have absolutely no idea what you’re apologising for. But I was expecting you to bring dinner instead of turning up empty handed.”Jungkook rolled his eyes. “It’s not an apology, but a proclamation that I could have managed the situation better. I’m less charming when I blow up.” He plopped himself next to Taehyung, pulling a cushion onto his lap. “Enlighten me. How could someone as smart as you do something as profoundly stupid as breaking up with Jimin?”Taehyung stopped typing, turned his face to Jungkook. His cousin’s empathy finally had him looking past his own vulnerability. He opened up solemnly. “He told me I was suffocating him.”With a sigh, Jungkook leaned back and stared at the ceiling. “Don’t you think you’ve given up too easily this time? It’s unlike you.”“Did you see him today?” Taehyung asked, aware that it was Jimin’s last day at work.Jungkook tilted his head towards Taehyung. “He was all polite smiles, but if you look closely enough, he’s got this brooding face whenever he thinks no one is watching. He was laughing at some joke I’d made but when I asked him how he was coping, he had this pained look. I couldn’t bear to pry further.”An awful sensation tore at Taehyung’s chest. He’d hurt Jimin. Thinking of the boy had kept him awake at night. Taehyung missed him. Badly.Jungkook jabbed Taehyung in waist. “Did you try to call him? Say sorry to him or send him gifts – strawberries, Naruto or some Avengers stuff - he likes those right? I shouldn’t have to tell you this.”Taehyung pinched between his eyes. “It’s not something that words and gifts could fix. You were right when you said I was like Dad. I hurt Jimin badly this time.”“You sure did. Unless you do something about it.” Jungkook sat up straighter. “Look, I have this idea which-” A vibrating sound in his pocket interrupted him.“Yes,” Jungkook answered the call, listened for a beat. An expletive came out of his lips as the caller spoke. He levelled a grim look at Taehyung, said into the phone, “All right-we’ll be right there now.”“What is it?” Taehyung pressed on, quick to sense something was amiss.Jungkook shoved the phone back into his pocket. “The PI who’s tailing Chen just lost him. We need to head to the office now.”*The incessant sound of the doorbell buzzing stirred Jimin awake from his deep slumber. He opened his eyes, stared into the darkness. The soft glow of the digital clock on the nightstand read 9:55 pm.His head thumped with a dull, consistent ache. The painkillers he’d downed earlier didn’t seem to be helping much. He wanted to fall back into the covers again, but the doorbell wouldn’t stop buzzing. Did Hobi forget his keys?Jimin hauled himself up and fumbled for the light switch.“Coming…” He mumbled, his voice rusty and dry. His legs felt like rubber but he managed his way to the front door, telling himself that the first thing he would do was to apologise to Hoseok.He pulled the door opened, barely having strength to lift his head.Chen smiled back at him.“Chen?”“Christ,” his ex-work buddy exclaimed with a disturbed frown. “What on earth happened to you?”Then, Jimin remembered - He was supposed to be at Chen’s house for the stayover party. It was Friday today.“Oh gosh…” Jimin braced a hand on the door jamb for support while his other hand rubbed his temples. “I’m so sorry… I wanted to take a short nap but overslept. I’m so sorr-”“Hey hey… it’s all right,” Chen put a hand on Jimin’s shoulder. “You got me worried when you didn’t pick up my calls. I decided to come over and check up on you. You look… terrible.”“I don’t know what’s wrong with me,” Jimin muttered, feeling another wave of nausea.“You look in dire need of rest,” Chen said, easing his way inside.“I’ll get you something to drink,” Jimin headed for the kitchen.“Don’t bother,” Chen called out from behind. “I’ll make myself comfortable. Cosy place you have.”“I insist. You came all the way here anyway.”Just before entering the kitchen, Jimin paused when he heard the sharp click of his front door being locked.Not everyone who is nice to you is a good person, Taehyung’s warning blared like a death bell in his mind.Jimin’s insides suddenly felt wrong, very wrong.“Wait, Chen… how did you know where I stay?” he muttered, turning around. “I don’t recall telling you my address-”But he found Chen’s face mere inches away from his, as a callous hand slammed against his mouth to silence his scream.A strange smile spread over Chen’s face. His eyes were that of a stranger as he murmured, “Now, you are going to be very quiet and listen to me, boy. You don’t want your man to get hurt, would you?”+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

“The PI lost him at the intersection. He got off a cab mid-traffic and hoped onto another one,” Yoongi reported.“Any news on IT’s side for the other two?” Taehyung asked, mentally thinking Chen’s next possible move.“Tao’s been cleared. The data sec guys confirmed that those bugs were planted into his PC by a hacker to mislead us,” Yoongi said. He paused a while as if for emphasis. “The same case for Jimin. His PC’s also been hacked with the same methods.”Taehyung had known all the while that Jimin was innocent. It was precisely why he’d isolated the boy from Tao and Chen, the main suspects of the hacking and insider trading. Part of the plan was to separate the three of them, set different traps in their reassigned roles and see who would bite the bait. The move was also due to personal reasons - to protect Jimin from being the scapegoat should the mastermind behind the insider trading turned out to be Chen or Tao, or both.As it turned out, Chen fell into the hole Taehyung had dug – by sharing the news of V Inc’s acquisition of some Russian company with underground dealers (information only Taehyung, Jungkook and Yoongi knew were bogus). Although that bastard was smart enough to use an anonymous identity from a hidden IP address, the new security algorithms which their team had developed were sophisticatedly intelligent to track the hacker’s source and reveal Chen’s identity.But even when it was just a matter of time before they got their hands on Chen, Taehyung’s instincts hummed with unease. He felt like he was missing out something. Something important, and horrible.He pushed himself off the desk and moved to the glass looking out the night  city below. “This is too easy. It’s unlike the hacker’s earlier patterns of behaviour.”Jungkook leaned forward on the couch, ran a hand over his hair.  “It’s as though he’s distracted this time, or found something else to do.”“Chen actually winked at the PI before hopping into another cab, like he knew someone was following him all these while” Yoongi said. “But he’s as good as exposed his identity by doing that.”“It’s a challenge,” Taehyung said without a doubt. “He knows he won’t get away but that’s not his concern. He’s challenging us to play with him.”Again, that feeling of unease hang there like bad air, tickling Taehyung’s nerves. He backtracked his memories, searched and searched.Out of nowhere, moments leading up to his last fight with Jimin sprang into his mind, the catalyst for their breakup.Taehyung looked back at Jungkook and Yoongi. “That bastard’s having some party at his place today.”Would Jimin go? The possibility haunted him.Taehyung fished out his phone and hit Jimin’s number.
Pick up the damn call.
But the line went to voice mail. “He’s not answering.” Taehyung hit the redial button and heard the operator’s neutral voice again. “We take the fight to the bastard now,” he concluded, already moving towards the door.“We’ll go with you,” Jungkook braced forward, exchanging nods with Yoongi.Even as their elevator made its way down, the blood pounding in Taehyung’s ears refused to slow. His hands bunched into useless fists at his sides.“Yoongi, alert the police,” he murmured. Something just wasn’t right about this. Why plan a party unless you have no intention of escaping? What game was Chen playing at?The elevator doors opened.Tao stood in front of them, about to enter.“What are you doing here?” Taehyung demanded as he stepped out.Bewildered, Tao looked at the three faces staring back at him like he was the object of some rare experiment. “I was out with some friends and forgot something in the office. I’m just going up to pick it.”“Wait a second,” Jungkook interrupted. “Didn’t Chen invited you to his place for a stayover party?”“Oh that,” Tao’s face lit up with understanding. “It’s next month, not today. He hasn’t even fix a date. Hold on, is there any-”But Taehyung had already bulleted towards the exit.*

Relax, Jimin. Do not panic.
But it was useless. He couldn’t relax.When Chen was certain that he wouldn’t scream for help, his hand slipped away from Jimin’s mouth.Jimin heaved in air, backed away instantly. He edged close to the wall, knocking over a few trinkets and photo frames on the open shelf.That smile on Chen’s face gave him the creeps. It wasn’t the nice, affable guy he knew. Chen’s sudden attack and the predatory way he moved towards Jimin reminded him of the school bully who’d cornered him in the toilet years ago. Like a wolf circling its prey.“Wh-What do you want?” Jimin’s voice came out wobbly.Chen’s eyes danced with insanity. “Getting down to business with you, Park Jimin. Would you have become mine for the right price?”“I d-don’t know what y-you are ta-talking about.”Chen pulled out a folded paper from his pocket and slapped it against Jimin’s chest, frightening him. “This might change your mind.”Ordering his hands not to tremble, Jimin unfolded the paper. His heart pounded like a fist to a rock as his application form to the escort agency stared back at him.“Wh-where d-did you ge-get th-this from?”Chen mimicked his stuttering. “I-I-found i-it ss-squashed at-at the bo-ttom of yo-your b-bag.”“Y-you searched my bag? Wait, I-I do not understand.” Jimin words came out slow with apprehension.“Then let me make you understand. You ruined my plans tonight, Park Jimin. Well… part of my plans anyway. You were supposed to come to my place, have some fun with me. I shall pardon you for this blip though, since you are unwell. But you’ve gotta stop playing games with me.”“What games?”“Ya know, acting one moment like you were keen to get close to me, then ditching me the next when Kim Taehyung comes. I know you lacked self-confidence and thought an arrogant alpha like him could fix that. I’m sad to say it won’t work. Someone like you need someone like me. We compliment each other, like the stars and moon in the sky.” “You are my friend, a good friend,” Jimin said, as calmly as he could manage. “I don’t know why you’re doing this. If there’s a misunderstanding or if you’re having a bad day-”“I don’t want to be your friend and I’m absolutely fine!” Chen shoved Jimin back against the wall when he tried to move. But that flash of violence was gone in the same instant it happened. “Oh no, this is not correct,” Chen rubbed his face, then worked out a new smile as he faced a shaken Jimin. “Sorry, I shouldn’t have raised my voice at you. I made a promise to myself not to treat you the way Kim Taehyung did. I know everything about you, Jimin - your habits and hobbies, what interests you and what bores you. Unlike Kim Taehyung, I made efforts to know you so I can love you better. I even risk coming here every now and then just to get a touch of how you live.”A chill wisped through Jimin’s spine. “You followed me.”It appalled him when Chen tossed him a naughty smirk, like a kid in mischief. “Broke in here a couple of times too. Gave me the kicks each time I got away. Nice choice of shampoo, and underwear.”The confession stole Jimin’s breath, turned his guts upside down. “You took my stuff.” It explained why his clothes had been disappearing, and why his belongs seemed to have grown legs and switched places.“Not just that,” Chen supplied proudly. “I needed to test a theory – if you and Kim Taehyung had a thing. That sketch I submitted on your behalf sure confirmed it. When I met Heechul for dinner last evening, he told me how flustered you were at the closing of the D&D night when that sketch was shown to the audience.”“You were the one behind that too,” Jimin muttered. And to think that he had initially accused Taehyung and thought it was the alpha’s plan to humiliate him. “Is Heechul in this with you?”“Nah, he’s just a harmless kid sharing office gossips.”It still didn’t make sense. Jimin pressed on. “But didn’t Taehyung fire you because he didn’t like you?”Chen let out a long, dramatic puff of air. “That’s your problem, Park Jimin. You always assume things. Not that I’m complaining, since that makes you a good puppet. I didn’t say Taehyung fired me. I was the one who resigned. I gambled on the odds that you’d be affected by my leaving and assumed it was Taehyung’s doing. It would only drive you further from him and serve my purpose. But I’m done with the fun in his company. Hacking into its systems costed a lot of brain cells.” He winked at Jimin. “I have a new target anyway.”How much revelations could he take in a single night? Jimin’s mind wondered aloud. His bad headache got worse and he wasn’t sure if it was due to sickness or shock or both. “You were the one behind the insider trading.”“Sure took you long to figure out,” Chen remarked as he examined the ornaments and mementoes on the shelf, touched a few. “I won’t blame you since even Taehyung and Jungkook tore their heads out trying to catch me in the act. Those sons of bitches even sent someone to track my whereabouts, as if sensing I’m up to no good.” His eyes returned to Jimin, gleaming. “The tailing put my mood in a pisser cos I was unable to come here until I shake that guy off. It’s a little late though, I’ve fallen into the trap they set because I was too distracted by the prospect of being with you. Whatever-I deal with setbacks by improvising.”Anger, though weak, pumped through Jimin’s fear. “Taehyung worked hard to get to where he is today. You shouldn’t ruin his company like that.”“I’ve gotta take my hats off you for defending a man who treats you like dirt.”“It’s none of your business.”“Smart mouth,” Chen sneered as he returned to stand before Jimin. “I respect your choice. You can continue to protect Taehyung, and I’ll help you with this self-fulfilling prophecy of yours. Afterall, love embraces all faults. Come on, let’s make a deal.”“There’s nothing between Taehyung and I,” Jimin said, hoping his panic wasn’t obvious. “You’re wasting your time if you think you can get back at Taehyung by hurting me.” Because he was nothing to the alpha. Nothing.“Who says I’m targeting Taehyung? You’re the one I want.”“Then I have nothing to give you.”Chen spoke in a measured tone, wriggling a finger. “You’ll listen to me. Cos if you’re gonna be naughty, then Daddy will have to punish you – it’ll be tough love. I’ll have no choice but to feed the media with an exclusive scoop.” He spread out his hands in triumph. “Imagine what a hellish scandal it’ll unleash for V Inc if the media hears about Kim Taehyung engaging escort services. Shares’ gonna tumble. The public are gonna be astonished.” “You-you won’t do that. You stand to gain nothing from it.”“Woah, then how does this headline sound? – ‘V Inc’s mighty founder seeking sexual favours from male employee. Doctor parents decline to comment.”The winning grimace on Chen’s face made it clear that the stakes were high. Horror blanketed Jimin, that Chen was deadly serious. If he didn’t do whatever Chen wanted, he would hurt Taehyung. The alpha’s years of hard work would go down the drain. And not to mention how disappointed Lily Kim would be and Kim Sooro… Jimin didn’t even dare to think how Taehyung’ father would react.Leaning in, Chen skimmed a finger down Jimin’s adam apple. “Plus you wouldn’t want your parents in Busan to be heartbroken by what you have been doing behind their back. Oh Baby Jimin, I really don’t wanna upset my in-laws.”That was a cheap blow, but its severity hit Jimin like a sledgehammer. He wasn’t just going to drag Taehyung down. His own parents would be disgraced by their son’s actions.Fear spurred him to beg. “Please, don’t do that.”“Baby, of course Daddy won’t. If you listen to Daddy.”Jimin was going to cry, could almost taste the dreadful end as he said, “Tell me what should I do.”“Let Daddy show you instead, baby.”Chen hauled him towards the bedroom. *Taehyung drove like a mad man, ignoring road safety and kicking traffic rules. He was unable to trust anyone but himself in getting to their destination quick.Even as their car flew down the roads and crisscrossed past others, he couldn’t shake off the bad feeling. Again, that same damning intuition clawed at his bones.Wrong. This was wrong.But what the fuck was wrong?Taehyung was two steps ahead of Jungkook and Yoongi as they raced up the building for Chen’s unit on the second floor. He skidded to a halt outside the door. The place was dead quiet, no noises evident of a party inside. Taehyung jabbed at the buzzer, beat the wood with anxious palms when the door remained shut.He swore, reared back, and kicked the door together with Jungkook.The three of them swept into the darkness. Yoongi flicked a couple of switches and light spilled down.The apartment smelt new but was uncomfortably small, with the kitchen and the living area squashed next to each other.No furniture, no signs of it been occupied.“Is this where he’s living?” Jungkook’s voice echoed through the space.Think. Think. Think, Taehyung willed his mind. On instinct, he strode for the only door which appeared to be the bedroom. He yanked it opened, stepped in and groped for the switch.His blood turned to pools of ice at what laid before him. Time stopped, dead.Surrounding him were walls covered with photographs. Candid, zoomed-in shots of Jimin, covertly taken without the subject’s knowledge.Arranged neatly from ceiling to floor, they depicted Jimin’s day-to-days in chilling detail: Jimin exiting a bakery; Jimin boarding a bus; Jimin crossing the road; Jimin shopping for groceries; Jimin taking a nap at work; Jimin walking back to his apartment; Jimin-Basically, just an oblivious Jimin… in various modes of activities.There was even one of the boy laughing as he clung onto the arm of a person who’d been cut out. From the shirtsleeve, Taehyung recognised that person to be himself.Taehyung’s icy fury snowballed. Every fibre in his body threatened to explode but at its core, fear began setting roots.Jimin was the object of a classic stalker's obsession.And all this while, they thought they were only dealing with a seasoned hacker.“We are late.” Jungkook muttered out of the blue.“What?” Taehyung whipped a hard look at his cousin, who had moved to a small desk at the corner. Yoongi, he could see, had gone out to answer a call.Jungkook held up a stash of travel brochures, his face paper white with shock as his eyes met Taehyung’s. “He even made an itinerary and fuck-”In an impatience move, the alpha snatched a paper away from Jungkook. An e-mail acknowledgement for the purchase of KTX tickets to Gwangju.Yet, the actual tickets weren’t in the pile. Gone.Oxygen left Taehyung’s lungs. “He’s taking Jimin out of Seoul.”* Jimin was reduced to whimpers as Chen tossed him onto the bed. He backed against bed frame, in a futile attempt to keep his distance from Chen. He watched as Chen stood at the foot of the bed, taking off his shirt.Just then, Jimin’s eyes caught the edge of his phone peeking out from the pillow. His heart lurched with a glimmer of hope. Slowly, he began to scoot himself towards it while keeping an eye on Chen.“I thought of drugging you to make things easier,” Chen said, tossing his shirt away. “But then it’s better if you can feel me.” Standing half-naked, he appraised the room with his eyes, and made a disapproving grunt at the Joongki posters. “What a creep your friend is, but this place will have to do.”“My friend,” Jimin blurted out. Keep him talking. Keep him distracted. “He-he’s gone out to get supper. Do you want anything?”Chen hooted dryly. “You won’t get much by stalling for time, baby. Your friend’s abandoned you. I assumed that he was at home when I rang the buzzer. But I caught a glimpse of the note he’s left you when I followed you to the kitchen just now. You guys had a fight, yeah? Even the gods are on my side this time.” He made a sympathetic noise, and pounced on the bed.The sudden movement elicited a startled cry from Jimin. Chen wretched the phone away, beating him to it. The gadget hit the wall before breaking apart into two pieces on the floor.“Naughty, naughty.” Chen jerked Jimin’s head back by the hair, and hissed down on his face. “I told you to stop playing games with me. Don’t try Daddy’s patience.”“I-” Jimin choked out in pain.“Remember? You want to protect Taehyung, yeah? Ah-hah, which reminds me that those idiots must be ransacking my place now. Or maybe they’ve left. If they’re lucky they might still catch the last train to Gwangju.”“Wh-what are you talking about?” Jimin’s insides flinched at the demented humour in Chen’s expression.Chen released his grip. “It was my original plan to take you to Gwangju, but you didn’t show up. So I had to improvise by dumping a few travel pamphlets for them. I’d say the new plan is much better, which is to send them to Gwangju while we stay here. I’m like the fox setting the lions up on a wild goose chase, while I prey on the cub in its cave.”“You’re horrible.”“Do you still not understand? No one is coming to save you. Now, shut up and lie down.”“Please, you are my friend. I will talk to Taehyung, ask him to give you a chance. You can still turn back if you-”“I said lie down!”Jimin gasped out of fright. With no choice but to obey, he lay down on his back. He remained still as a doll, but the involuntary shivers gave his fears away.He forced his eyes shut as Chen got on top of him, his leaden weight pinning him down on the mattress.Chen began to stroke Jimin’s hair and cheeks. “Such a pretty face.”“Please… don’t hurt Taehyung… please…”Another bark of laughter. “Then make Daddy happy.”The springs beneath Jimin creaked as Chen shifted his weight above him.Then, wet lips mashed against Jimin and a tongue plunged into his mouth with brute force. He felt the sickening slime of saliva as Chen filled him with slobbery kisses.A sharp cry gutted out of Jimin’s throat as the front of his shirt ripped open. Every nerve in his body coiled at the callous hands that rubbed and prodded his skin. Chen continued feasting on him, ignoring his distress.The lips, tongue and hands that stroked him felt dirty. They were gross, and wrong. All Jimin could ever think was that he would never be clean again.He felt Chen’s hand sneaking into his pants. And something snapped inside him.“No!” Jimin’s eyes flew open. His outstretched hand fumbled on the bedside and closed on the digital alarm. With all his strength, he swung the clock at Chen’s head.As Chen howled back in pain, Jimin kicked him off and sprang for escape. He pelted out of the room, screaming his lungs out as he dashed for the front door.Jimin’s fingers grazed the knob as Chen jerked him back by his hair. Terror pounced back to life. When Jimin attempted to fight back, Chen gave him a back-handed smack that had him knocking over the coffee table. He hit the floor hard, pain shooting his ribs.Chen sat atop Jimin and gripped his throat. “Now, you will learn what it means to be obedient. If Taehyung couldn’t train you well, Daddy will!”“You won’t get away with this.” Jimin gasped for air as his nails raked at Chen’s punishing hands.“Oh yeah, I don’t care as long as I get to fuck you.”“You’re sick!”Another smack in the face and this time, Jimin’s head rattled with stars. He tasted tears. He tasted blood.Chen sang with cheery indifference, “Don’t forget baby, Taehyung’s future is at Daddy’s mercy~”At that, Jimin’s hands went limp. Breaking down, he covered his face and wept and pleaded.Would he ever be the same once this was over? Would he even live through it?He felt Chen rip away the last fabrics of his shirt and heard the unmistakable sound of a belt buckle.
No. No. NO.
Suddenly Chen’s weight on him vanished.Rolling to his side, Jimin crawled away in a blur of tears.A jacket covered his shoulders and arms came around him. He kicked back, screamed.“Hush, Jimin, it’s okay… it’s okay.” Jungkook held him until he stopped fighting.“Jung-Jungkook?” he heaved between sobs.“It’s okay, you are safe now, it’s okay.” Jungkook rubbed his shoulders, his worried eyes searching Jimin.“I..I-” Jimin was about to mutter something when the sounds caught his attention. Slumped against Jungkook, he turned his head.Before the TV set, Chen lay faceup on the floor with Taehyung straddling him.  With the alpha’s fists smashing and smashing into him.Yoongi and Hoseok burst in.“Chimmy!” Hoseok dropped onto his knees beside Jimin. His friend was already in tears as he inspected him. “Oh god… god-god-what did he do to you. I’m sorry! I shouldn’t have left you alone. Oh god-”“I’m all right,” Jimin choked out, touching Hoseok’s hand.Yoongi was about to move towards Taehyung when Jungkook held up his hand.“He’s going to kill him,” Yoongi said.Jungkook shrugged. “This is his fight. Give him some time.”“We better stop him now,” Yoongi said when several seconds had passed. When Jungkook scowled, he added, “V Inc can’t do without this CEO.”“All right, all right.” Jungkook got to his feet, leaving Jimin to Hoseok’s care.It took Jungkook and Yoongi together to haul Taehyung off Chen. Taehyung fought like a beast, growling madly, as his feral eyes remained on the unconscious Chen.The alpha was unstoppable.But it took only one look at Jimin to bring him back.Taehyung shook off Jungkook and Yoongi and was by Jimin’s side in an instant.He gently cupped Jimin’s face with his hand. The savage fury in his eyes melted into anguish. “I’m sorry. I should’ve come earlier. I’m sorry.”Jimin closed his hand on Taehyung’s. “You came.” It was all that mattered.The sounds of sirens filled the night outside.“It’s the cops,” said Jungkook, glancing out through the curtain gaps. “I’m going down first to let them know.”Brushing away Jimin’s tears with his knuckles, Taehyung said, “I’m taking you out of here.” He secured the jacket around Jimin and scooped him up carefully.As they headed out, Jimin’s eyes roamed to the sight of Hoseok stomping on Chen’s groin while Yoongi tried to pull him away. His distressed friend broke down and wept in Yoongi’s arms.Jimin dropped his head on Taehyung’s shoulder. He breathed in the familiar scent of vanilla and pinewood. The scent of warmth and comfort. Slowly, the world righted itself.“He said he’s going to expose us to the media and destroy everything you had,” Jimin told Taehyung as he carried him down the corridor.“That’s not going to happen,” Taehyung said flatly. “That bastard’s not coming anywhere near you again.”“I hit him with the alarm.”“Good.”“I thought you weren’t coming, but a voice inside me told me to fight because you would… and then I was afraid that you would come and he will beat you and then I thought it was over and then I… and then I-” Jimin’s breath hitched, unable to continue.“I’ll always find you, Mochi. Even if I have to crawl and beg, I will find you.”Jimin made a small sound between quiet sobs. He tightened his arms around Taehyung’s neck. He’d missed him badly. Tiredness washed over him.As they entered the elevator, Jimin mumbled, “Thank you… for coming.” It was getting hard to keep his heavy eyelids from drooping.Taehyung kissed Jimin’s temple, let out a heavy sigh. “Hush, you are burning and you are in shock. We will get you treated. You will be fine.”“But I don’t want to add to your baggage…” Jimin slurred as sleepiness closed in on him. Bundled in Taehyung’s arms, he felt an incredible sense of safety.Darkness claimed him.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

When the paramedics tried to put Jimin on the stretcher, he clung to Taehyung with a hysterical strength. Even in a state of semi consciousness, the boy sobbed and pleaded not to be taken away.“We need to get you to the hospital,” Taehyung tried to persuade Jimin, still carrying him. “Don’t be afraid… I’ll be with you.”But Jimin’s arms tightened like a death grip around the alpha’s neck. “Don’t let them take me away!”“Jimin-”“Don’t leave me behind again. Please!”Jimin was shaking so badly that Taehyung feared the boy’s body would shatter. “All right-all right- no hospital.” He pressed his lips to Jimin’s temple. “I will take you home. We will go home, all right?”Jimin gave a small nod and his grip on Taehyung loosened a little.At his wits end, Taehyung did what he had never imagined.He called Jin.* By the time they got home, Jimin’s sobs had faded into sniffles, and he was limp in Taehyung’s arms.Jin had arrived at Taehyung’s house as soon as he received the call. He waited by the gate, a briefcase in his hand. His face registered alarm when he saw the state of Jimin as Taehyung carried him out of the car.“Questions later,” Taehyung said as he strode into the house. Without a word, Jin followed the alpha upstairs.Taehyung gently laid Jimin onto the bed.“Don’t go…” murmured Jimin weakly, his eyes closed.With a hand, Taehyung swept sweaty strands of hair away from the boy’s forehead. “No, Mochi. I’m not going anywhere. Jin, my brother – you’ve met him. He’s going take a look at you and make you better, all right?”When there were no signs of protest from Jimin, Taehyung nodded to Jin to begin.Jin retrieved a stethoscope from his briefcase and began examining Jimin. With a calm demeanour befitting of skilled doctor, he moved the stethoscope to examine Jimin’s heart and lungs.Taehyung had moved to the side, observant yet helpless as he watched on.Jin popped an ear thermometer into Jimin’s ear, and pursed his lips at the reading. “105,” he muttered to himself. The frown between his brows deepened when he proceeded to the bruises on Jimin’s skin. He injected Jimin with a tranquiliser. Minutes later, the tension lining Jimin’s face cooled.“Is he going to be okay?” Taehyung asked. His eyes never left Jimin, who had visibly calmed down and fallen asleep.Jin folded his stethoscope and put it back into his briefcase along with other tools. “He’s caught a high fever. It’s likely a result of prolonged stress and fatique. The shot I’ve administered will calm his nerves. His heart and lungs are working fine- no signs of pneumonia.” Jin paused and cut Taehyung a concerned look. “He’s in a state of shock too. What happened to him?”Guilt cleaved at the alpha. He could have killed Chen, leapt into hell with him. He could never erase the image of that bastard sitting atop Jimin, and the horror of the worst which would have happened if he hadn’t arrived in time. But more than that, Taehyung wanted to kill himself for putting Jimin in such a sorry state.He let out a defeated breath. “It’s a long story, if you have time to listen.”“Sure. It’s time we talk,” Jin said.They settled in the study and Taehyung told Jin everything. To Jin’s credit, he listened attentively with understanding.“I could’ve killed him for this,” Taehyung muttered under his breath as his fist hardened. At the flinch of Jin’s shoulders, he snapped back from murderous thoughts about Chen.“Are the police going to investigate this?” Jin asked, regaining his composure. There was no reprimand or judgement in his tone, only concern.“They already are. Jungkook’s assisting them with investigations for now. They’ll probably come tomorrow to interview Jimin. I don’t plan to let them.”“I understand,” Jin put in, swirling his tea cup. “Jimin’s not fit for interviews now, at least not for the next couple of days. I’ll issue a doctor’s note.”“Will he be okay?”“Keep his fluids high tonight. He’s going to be fine.”“Are you sure I don’t need to take him to the hospital?”“Only if his fever doesn’t subside in the next twelve hours. Or if you feel better seeking a second opinion,” Jin said good-naturedly.“No, I trust your judgement.”“I guess you wouldn’t have returned my calls if not for Jimin. It’s inappropriate for me to say that I was relieved when you called, but I want to apologise properly to you.” Jin sat up straighter, his face grave. “I’m sorry for the hurt I have caused you, and I’m sorry about Joon. What he did wasn’t appropriate, although he didn’t know that you were away when he took Jimin to see Dad. He wanted to help and thought he could help put in a few good words. We all know Jimin’s important to you.”“And why would that be?” Taehyung asked.Jin lifted his shoulders and gave a tight smile. “It’s the way you look at him at the party. It was perhaps why Dad had wanted to stop it.”“I won’t let him,” Taehyung shot back. That old man could think the worst of his son, Taehyung wouldn’t care. But he was not going to let anyone take away what was so precious to him. Ever again. His happiness, Taehyung realised, was for himself to fight and to hold.As he looked at Jin, Taehyung could no longer feel the anger, bitterness and resentment which he had been harbouring against his older brothers all these years. The alpha went on, “I forgive you and Joon for what happened in the past, and I forgive Joon for taking Jimin to see Dad behind my back. But I’m far from perfect to be able to talk to the both of you like we used to.” Things like this needed time, not words, Taehyung realised.“We hurt you badly.”Taehyung pressed the bridge of his nose to relieve some pressure. “I was to blame too. I was too shrouded by my problems and neglected your feelings. I can’t blame you for choosing Joon over me. Thinking back, anyone with good sense would’ve chosen Joon. I should’ve been a bigger and better person for you back then, but I was too weak and neglected your feelings.”Jin considered his remarks pensively. “I should’ve come clean with you back then, instead of seeing Joon behind your back. I was afraid at how you’d react, but it got worse when you had to find out yourself. What I did was awful, non-excusable.”Taehyung let out a breath. “Jin, it’s time you stop blaming yourself if you want to be happy with Joon. We need to learn from our mistakes and move on.” Even as he offered the advice to Jin, Taehyung hoped with all his heart that he himself would pick up from his wrongdoings. He had so much to learn on being human. An aching stirred in his heart as he thought of Jimin. “Right now, I just want to focus on the things before me and what’s important.”Jin commented, “You’ve grown up quite a bit since the last time we talked properly.” “Four years is short, but long if we are holding a grudge,” Taehyung said. The past few months of knowing Jimin had made him realised how stupid he’d been all this while. “I should check up on Jimin.” Taehyung got up from his chair. He didn’t feel good leaving the boy alone for too long.“I’ll get going.” Jin stood up too.“One more thing,” Taehyung said as he was seeing Jin to the door. “Keep what happened today from Dad and Mom. I don’t want them to worry.”“I know,” Jin assured.*After Jin left, Taehyung continued watching over Jimin. He took care of the boy while doing his work on an armchair which he’d pulled to the bedside. He checked Jimin’s temperature from time to time, gently woke the him up when it was medicine time. Jimin remained in a semi-conscious state.Taehyung returned to the bedroom with a tray. He poured some warm chicken soup into a mug and sat down beside Jimin.He nudged Jimin gently to wake him up. “Jimin, it’s medicine time.” He propped Jimin up against him, bringing the cup against the boy’s lips. “Have some soup first.”With his eyes closed, Jimin took small sips, then whimpered and shook his head.“Come on… just a little bit more,” Taehyung coaxed patiently. “I know you’re feeling terrible, but this will make you well.”Jimin obeyed and drank some more. Then, he shook his head weakly and made a small sound of protest. Before Jimin could protest some more, Taehyung slipped a small pill into his mouth along with sips of water. He hushed Jimin back to sleep and rocked him gently.Sometime in the middle of the night, Jimin began whimpering incoherent sentences in his sleep. He broke into a cold sweat. “Don’t hurt him-please... I’ll do what you say. Don’t-”Taehyung caught his little fist in the air and unfurled it. “You’re safe, Mochi. I’m here… You’re safe.”Whatever images that were tormenting Jimin in his nightmares, Taehyung didn’t want him there. It tore a hole in the alpha’s heart, that the boy couldn’t have peace even in his sleep. He held onto Jimin’s hand. “You’re safe… nobody can hurt you, you’re safe,” he kept saying.When Jimin settled, Taehyung dabbed his head with a warm towel. He undressed Jimin out of his sweat soaked clothes.  As he ran a warm towel over Jimin, a brew of heartache and fury gushed over him at the marks of violence which Chen had inflicted. Taehyung’s tunnel vision saw himself back in Jimin’s apartment again.But his fury wasn’t what Jimin needed now.Shoving aside the anguish, Taehyung changed Jimin into a fresh set of pyjamas and pulled up the covers to his neck.“I’m sorry,” he whispered, combing Jimin’s hair with his fingers. The boy, though asleep, was betrayed by the little tremors that shook his stillness.This was going to be a long night. When Jimin started trembling again, Taehyung crawled into the sheets beside him. Shifting Jimin into his arms, Taehyung nestled the boy’s head into his shoulders. His other hand gave soothing rubs on his back. “It’s okay… it’s okay now. You’re safe. I’m here and no one can hurt you.” He kept saying, hoping that the words would reach him.
Please, let the nightmares leave him.
Gradually, Jimin’s breathing slowed and his shoulders drooped. Taehyung fell asleep holding him.*Nightmares chased him.Jimin found himself fleeing from masses of dark clouds raining with Chen’s laughter. He was alone in a blacken field that stretched on endlessly. With nothing, but Chen’s smiling faces and laughter surrounding him.He kept running, his lungs burning for oxygen and the muscles in his legs tearing in pain. At some point his knees gave way and he collapsed onto the ground. His bones melted to nothingness as he fought to get up.
Save me. Someone please save me.
He screamed at the sounds of shirts being ripped apart, and when Chen’s breath came down hot on his ears.As if responding to his cry for help, strong arms picked him up. Gentle and warm. A beacon of light filtered away the darkness. Wings flapped. An angel was carrying him, a kind smile on its face.You are safe, the angel told him as it carried him into skies. Jimin’s eyes fluttered opened, his head swamping with wooziness. He was lying on his side, enveloped in what felt like human embrace.His bleary vision took in Taehyung, who was staring back at him. In the soft orange glow of light, the alpha’s eyes were gentle and sad.When Jimin found his voice, it was feeble and his syllables dragged. “…Am I in a dream?”Taehyung took Jimin’s hand, brought it to his face. “I’m real.”Jimin traced his fingers along the alpha’s jawline, his nose, and his lips.So surreal.His small hand cupped the alpha’s cheekbone. “You must be a dream.”“Why do you keep saying that?” Like his eyes, a heavy measure of sadness coated the alpha’s voice.Jimin choked out, hating how weak he sounded. “The real Taehyung never look at me like this anymore… I can no longer reach out to him…”“He’s a jerk. He made you cry so much.”“But I can’t stop thinking about him.”“He doesn’t deserve you.”“I know he’s not perfect… but I still like him.” Jimin could feel the warmth of Taehyung’s face in his hand. This dream was too real.“I’ll be by your side from now on. I won’t leave,” Taehyung murmured.“What a strange dream.” Jimin’s words slurred. He snuggled closer against Taehyung and closed his eyes. He breathed in the familiar scent of the man as the effects of drugs whisked him back to sleep. Arms came around him, gathering him closer to the angel.
Even if he’s not real, let me stay like this. Just for one more night.
** When Jimin next woke, it was daylight. He found himself back in Taehyung’s bedroom, tucked comfortably under the sheets. His mind wondered how did this happen. Hadn’t the alpha kicked him out of his house a few days ago? Or was he still in the dream?The aching that had been tormenting his head was reduced to a numb throbbing. He pushed himself to sit up, rubbing his head. His throat was dry, itching for water.Taehyung was by his side. As though reading Jimin’s needs, the alpha brought a cup of water close to his face with a straw for him to sip on. Jimin sipped on the water, still feeling weak as his brain struggled to process everything.“How long have I been sleeping?” Jimin asked. When he finally got a proper look at Taehyung, he noticed that the alpha looked tired and stressed. His five o’clock shadow was pronounced. “Two days,” Taehyung said, rubbing Jimin’s arm. “You were running a high fever. How are you feeling now?”“I’m better.” Jimin murmured. His gaze settled on an armchair beside the bed. Sprawled on the chair was an open laptop and some papers which appeared to be business documents.Jimin’s breath hitched as awful memories came rushing back. Chen. His head swivelled to Taehyung. “The trade secrets- Chen- he-”“He’s in police custody now,” Taehyung assured, an edge in his voice. “He’s going to be locked up for good.”“He said you were off to Gwangju.” A cold shiver tickled the hairs on the back of Jimin’s neck as he thought of Chen.“We almost did, but things just didn’t seem right,” Taehyung explained. “Then Yoongi received a call from Hoseok, said he’d received a text from you and that you’ll waiting for him to come home. It didn’t make sense for you to do that if you were on your way to Gwangju. Things just didn’t add up.”“Hobi-”“He’s staying at Yoongi’s place,” Taehyung put in before Jimin could worry more. “He came this morning but you were asleep. Don’t worry, he’s fine.”“I’m sorry… I didn’t know that Chen was the mastermind trying to ruin the company.”Taehyung sighed regretfully. “It was my fault. I should’ve warned you about him.”“You did,” Jimin muttered, recalling how protective the alpha was whenever Chen was in the picture. “I was just too silly not to notice.”“Stop blaming yourself,” Taehyung took Jimin’s hands and squeezed. “If anything, I’m the one who should apologise. Jimin, I’m sorry that I wasn’t there for you. And I’m sorry for the way I treated you. We should talk properly, but later. You must be hungry. Eat something first.”Jimin bowed his head. “I’m not hungry.”Taehyung rubbed his own face with his hand, clearly at a loss. “At least have some soup.” He reached for the tray of food at the bedside, took a bowl of chicken soup. “I… I can still feel his hands on me,” Jimin gathered in a breath, let it out with a shudder. “I need a bath.” “Jimin, he’s under police custody now. He’s not going to hurt you anymore. You’re safe.”“I need a bath,” he insisted.The alpha exhaled, like a parent who’d run out of options with his child. “I’ll run the water for you.”Jimin started to get out of bed. “I can walk myself,” he said to stop Taehyung from carrying him. But he hadn’t expected to feel so weak. He stumbled and the alpha caught his elbow before he could fall.In the end, Taehyung carried him into the bathroom and set him on the toilet seat. He turned away from the alpha, making it obvious that he didn’t want conversation. Jimin stared at the far wall ahead as Taehyung ran the bath and tested the temperature. The mirror was just in front, but Jimin kept his head down, unsure if he was ready for what he would see if he looked up.“What are you doing?” Jimin jerked back when Taehyung reached out for the rim of his shirt.The alpha looked grieved for a beat before reclaiming his calm. “Removing your clothes, so you can bathe.”Jimin pushed him away with the delicate strength he had. His body was still feeling weak and his muscles were aching all over. But he wasn’t a child or an invalid. Why must Taehyung fuss over him like he was incapable of taking care of himself?“I can do this myself. Would you please leave?” Jimin demanded quietly without meeting his eyes.“Jimin-”“Please- leave. You don’t have to baby me.”When Jimin showed no signs of giving in, Taehyung dropped his hands to his sides in a gesture of resignation. “I’ll wait outside.”“No. Just do what you want but don’t wait for me. I…I can’t take my time if I know someone’s waiting.”“All right,” Taehyung said, looking worried but giving in. “Don’t lock the door.” He slipped out of the bathroom, leaving the door slightly ajar.As Jimin slowly lowered himself into the tub, he winced at the heat that steamed his skin. He briefly acknowledged the bruises and cuts on his body, but refused to dwell too deeply on them.He closed his eyes and took deep, slow breathes.Wounds could heal. It was a matter of time.It would be over. He could do this.When he was done scrubbing and washing himself until his skin went red, he stepped out of the tub and towelled himself. He dried his hair and put on a long-sleeved sweatshirt to cover the bruises. He took all the time he needed.When he finally faced the mirror, he flinched, but only a little at the bruises that dappled his face.“You can do this,” he mumbled to his reflection.Taehyung came to him as he stepped out of the bathroom.“Can I use your phone for a while? I want to call Hobi,” Jimin asked before the alpha could open his mouth.Watching Jimin with concerned eyes, Taehyung unlocked his phone and handed it to him. “Here you go.”“Thanks. May I use one of the rooms?” “You don’t need to ask for permission to use anything or go anywhere in this house, you know. I’ll be in the study.”“Thank you.” The alpha’s brows knotted with discomfort at the formality which Jimin was displaying. “Jimin ah, can we talk after this? Or anytime when you’re ready.” “Sure,” Jimin nodded.After Taehyung shut the door behind him, Jimin called Hoseok.*Moments later, Jimin found Taehyung standing by the window in the study. His eyes were on a necklace dangling from his hand. As he neared, Jimin recognised it was the necklace that he’d found back for him at Jeju. Jimin remembered, with aching now, at how Taehyung had thrown the necklace out of the window. Still, Jimin had no regrets spending the night in the bushes and getting his hands dirtied just to find it back for him.Taehyung’s expression was troubled, like he was contemplating a personal problem.Was he thinking about their relationship? He didn’t have to worry anymore after this.Jimin cleared his throat, snapping Taehyung back from whatever was on his mind. The alpha’s face schooled into a tired smile as he slipped the necklace into his pants pocket.“Is there something you want to tell me?” The stiff politeness in Jimin’s voice wiped the relief off Taehyung’s face.“Can we sit down and talk?”“I prefer to stand,” Jimin said, then looked away when he caught Taehyung’s hurt expression.“All right,” the alpha gave in. “First of all, I want to apologise to you.”“You already did that just now,” Jimin replied. “I… never blame you at all.”“That’s not what I mean, Jimin.” Taehyung was confused now. He took a step forward but Jimin stepped back, effectively putting distance between them. The alpha looked a little thrown by this.Jimin took a breath, willing his voice not to betray the storm that was brewing inside him, at what he was about to say. “Taehyung, thank you for saving me and taking care of me. But you don’t have to feel bad for what happened. You’ve done more than enough, and I’m grateful for that.” A pause. “I should go now.”A worried frown. “Where can you go?”“Hobi’s dance studio has a spare room and sleeping bags. He’s taking some of my stuff there. We’ll bunk there in the meantime while we find a new place.” There was no point in going back to his old apartment anymore. It would only remind him of the nightmare with Chen.“I wasn’t expecting you to leave.” There was an urgency in Taehyung’s voice now. “You’re just getting better. Can’t you stay?”Bitter sadness lodged in Jimin’s throat, but he bit it down. “I’ve imposed on you long enough.”“This is your home too. You can stay as long as your like.”“I need to go.”The alpha’s eyes held his, confusion and sadness in their depths. “I have feelings for you.”
He has feelings for me.
It took a moment for Jimin to understand the impact those words held. His heart cracked and it was suddenly difficult to breathe. So, this wasn’t a one-sided affair.
He has feelings for me.
But still…Jimin could feel hot tears searing the back of his eyes, but he braved on. “Thank you for letting me know... your feelings. But I’m not the one you’re looking for. I can’t say intelligent things. I messed up everything I did and you had to clean up after me.”Taehyung countered, “That’s not true. You’re more capable than you think.”Jimin’s hearted caved. “I won’t be able to talk eloquently like those people in the meeting rooms. You need someone who matches your intellect. Someone who’s capable enough to help you with your business. I... can’t give you those things.”“I don’t need them.”“You’ll find someone who’s right for you.”“He’s already here,” Taehyung dropped to a quieter voice, his face ashen. Like someone who knew he was losing something precious.Jimin forced himself to smile for the last time. “Despite what happened, the past three months have been a happy journey for me. I’m happy to have met you, Taehyung. Please take care, goodbye.”When the alpha said nothing, Jimin turned and walked away.He had to.Because if he didn’t walk away now, he wouldn’t be able to the next time. Jimin was nearing the stairs when strong arms circled him from behind, drawing him against the masculine body warmth he’d been so accustomed to.Against his control, Jimin’s body quivered as Taehyung enveloped him. He felt the alpha’s heart beating against his back. For a dragging eternity they remained standing, neither of them speaking.It was a while before Jimin broke the silence. “It’s okay, Taehyung. You can let go.”“I’m not going to.” came the alpha’s quiet reply. “Not unless you tell me that you don’t have feelings for me.”Tears threatened. Jimin was too tired to retaliate. But at the core, he didn’t want to lie to the man he liked anymore. “Taehyung...”The alpha gently turned Jimin around until he was facing him. His hands clasped Jimin’s face and his eyes searched his. “I’m sorry, for trying to change you and forcing you to do things you don’t like. I wanted you to be stronger and put yourself before others. But I was afraid of losing you and ended up hurting you instead. I’m sorry… for not trusting you enough and for letting my insecurities get in the way. I let you believe that you’d done something wrong when you didn’t. You shouldn’t have to stand up on your own. I should be there to catch you when you fall.”Big, hot tears rolled down Jimin’s cheeks. Whatever resistance he had left dissolved. “I tried my best… I really did but I wasn’t good enough, such a burden am I-”“Hush, don’t say that.” Taehyung put his arms around him, drawing him closer. “You don’t have to change to somebody you’re not. I’m the idiot who let my ego get the better of me.”Jimin buried his face into Taehyung’s chest and sobbed. He started really crying, letting everything out. His tears drenched the alpha’s shirt, letting out all the strain, agony and frustration he’d been holding back. “I can’t drag you down... I can’t...”“You’re not dragging me down,” Taehyung said firmly. “You only have to be yourself. It’s the reason why I chose you.”Jimin’s hands bunched into fists around Taehyung’s shirt as his sobs became muffled in the alpha’s chest. “I was so upset at myself when you chased me out… that I could do nothing right…”“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have done that. I’m an idiot…I’m sorry.” Taehyung smoothed Jimin’s hair, gentling him.“I just want to like someone well... Why is it so hard?”“Because I’m the one.” Taehyung’s voice was strangled. “It wouldn’t have been like this if you had liked somebody else.”“Who hurt you…” Jimin sobbed harder, the pain tearing his guts. Taehyung’s arms around him tightened. He let Jimin continued crying, wishing that the world could take the boy’s pain away. The alpha soothed away his worries, kissed away his tears.When Jimin’s sniffles slowed, Taehyung eased back to look at him.“Shall we try this again?” The alpha asked. “I haven’t been in a serious relationship for a long time. I have many shortcomings. There’s a lot for me to learn and I can’t do this alone. It won’t be easy…but you and I, as long as we stick together, we can do it. I want to be your real boyfriend, Jimin.”Jimin’s mind stilled.“A real boyfriend?” He choked out, not believing what he was hearing. “But why would you want me as a real boyfriend?”“Cos I have feelings for you. I want us to be real, Mochi.”This felt impossible.“I...” Jimin swallowed, realising that Taehyung was waiting for him to say something.The alpha’s eyes glazed with tears “It’s all right. You don’t have to give me an answer now. Take your time and think about it. Jimin, are you willing to give me another chance? I want to be someone worthy of you. Will you stay by my side and teach me how to be a better man?”Jimin gazed into those eyes, full of sadness, fear and hope.And sincerity.Nodding, he made a sound of agreement between sniffles. “But you have to be patient with me. I’m not good at this either.”“We’ll learn together,” Taehyung whispered and knuckled a tear away. “Thank you,” he kissed Jimin on his forehead. “Thank you.”Then, without warning, Jimin’s stomach rumbled noisily.“I’m... hungry,” Jimin rubbed his eyes.Taehyung laughed a little. He brushed away the remaining tears on Jimin’s face. “There’s chicken soup. I’ll heat it up, and we’ll eat together.”“I want the drumstick.”+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

A week later, a nervous Jimin stood beside a very stern looking Hoseok.Fists on his hips, Hoseok scowled at Taehyung, who had come to help them settle in their new apartment.“How do you treat a person who pops by your place uninvited?” Although Hoseok’s glare remained on the alpha, his question was directed at Jimin.“Err...” Jimin scratched his head, desperate to diffuse the tension. “We let him in if we know him?” He winced when Hoseok hissed at him.“Do you have any concerns with this place?” Taehyung asked as his eyes scanned the interior of the condominium from the threshold.“You may be the one who found this place for us,-” Hoseok warned. “-but you still need Chimmy and my permission if you’re coming over.” “I bought this place, actually.” Taehyung corrected with an arrogant grin.“We’re paying you rent okay!” Hoseok snapped, throwing the alpha off-guard.Jimin tugged at Hoseok’s sleeve. “Come on...,” he whispered. “... don’t be like that. He’s here to help us unpack.”At Jimin’s pleading look, Hoseok slapped a mop into the alpha’s hands, throwing the alpha off again. “Last chance, Kim Taehyung. Hurt Jimin again, and you’re out.” He drew an invisible line across his neck to prove his point.“That’s clear to me, Mr. Jung,” Taehyung said. “Thank you for keeping a lookout for Jimin all these years.”At the gratitude in Taehyung’s tone, the harshness on Hoseok’s face wavered. Indeed, it was true that without him, Jimin would have been wiped out by nature’s selection long ago.Hoseok muttered under his breath to Jimin, “That’s for you, since you are so into him.”Jimin watched his friend sailed off to join Yoongi, who was unpacking boxes in the living area.“Remind me never to mess with Hosoek,” Taehyung whispered. He held up the mop. “Don’t we have robo-clean to do the job these days?”Jimin smiled. “Hobi prefers to do it manually.” He took the mop from Taehyung and put it aside.  “Come with me.” He took the alpha’s hand and pulled him towards the hallway to his new bedroom.“Keep the door open,” Hoseok called out from behind like a mother nagging at her teenage son.“I know,” Jimin called back. “Have you got everything you need?” Taehyung asked once they were in Jimin’s bedroom.“They are all here,” Jimin nodded towards two carton boxes on the floor. He didn’t have many belongings, and like the rest of the apartment, his room came in furnished – there were a double bed, a built-in wardrobe, a shelf and a desk. “I love this decor,” he said, admiring the sky-blue wallpaper with white dove prints.They worked in silence alongside each other for the next hour, unpacking boxes and sorting out Jimin’s stuff.Just last week, Jimin and Hoseok had been worrying over the prospect of finding a new place within their meagre budget. Then, Taehyung had took matters into his own hands and bought a unit in a condominium complex situated in an upscale area. The place came with 24-hour security, a swimming pool, sauna and gym facilities. It was also a mere ten-minute drive from Taehyung’s place.During the viewing session, Jimin and Hosoek had looked around the three-room apartment in awed silence. The luxury was all too much to take, but they were not going to argue with Taehyung, not especially after what had happened with Chen breaking into their old apartment. As far as security and comfort were concerned, Taehyung wanted the best for them. With an equally uncompromising Yoongi and a supportive Jungkook on Taehyung’s side, it gave Jimin and Hoseok no room for arguments.It was also a refreshing change for Jimin to have a room of his own with Hoseok’s just opposite. It wasn’t that Jimin didn’t like sharing a room with his friend, but having his own space meant that he could do his stuff at ungodly hours without worrying about disturbing his friend.Even as he now arranged his books and drawing materials on the shelf, Jimin was still trying to wrap around his head to the fact that Taehyung had bought this place for them. The alpha had agreed to rent it out to them only because he and Hosoek refused to move in as free lodgers.“Are you sure we’re paying you enough rent?” Jimin looked over his shoulder at Taehyung, who was setting up a table lamp.“The rent is nothing compared to the peace it gives me, knowing that my boyfriend is safe here when he’s not staying with me,” Taehyung said.Boyfriend. Warmth bloomed in Jimin’s stomach at the word and his heart did a light skip. He, Park Jimin, was now Kim Taehyung’s boyfriend.Not pretend boyfriend, but the real deal.Still…“I can’t help but feel that I’m taking advantage of you,” he said guiltily.Taehyung came over to his side. He took Jimin’s hands in his and locked eyes with him. “How about seeing it this way? I bought this place as an investment, and I need someone to inhabit and maintain it. You and your friend are doing me a huge favour by living here.”Jimin was not entirely convinced by Taehyung’s logic, but he didn’t want to dim that glow in the alpha’s eyes. “Okay, I’ll try.”Taehyung drew Jimin into his arms, and kissed the ridge of his brow. “We’ll get used to it.”“Get used to what?” Jimin gazed up, his chin on Taehyung’s chest.One side of Taehyung’s lips kicked up. “To our new beginnings.”“So sweet, huh?” A teasing voice had the both of them turning their heads to the doorway.  Jungkook was standing there with a knowing smirk.A little rush of panic had Jimin trying to squirm free from Taehyung’s arms, which only caused the alpha to snuggle him closer.“What are you doing in my boyfriend’s house?” Taehyung asked brusquely.Jungkook marched into the room and sniped back. “For your information, I happen to be your boyfriend’s best friend number two.”“Hi, Jungkook, good to see you,” Jimin greeted with a nervous laugh. Still trapped in Taehyung’s arms, he said in a hushed voice, “Stop hugging me like that.”His attempt to pry himself away from Taehyung was proving futile.The alpha simply sighed and held Jimin in place, his arms firm and gentle. “You know, Mochi, another thing we both need to get used to is public display of affection.”Jungkook snorted, “You also need to get used to how insufferable my cousin can be.”“Go away,” Taehyung tried to shoo him out.“You wish,” Jungkook countered. “I’m sorry but not sorry to have to pry you lovebirds apart. Kim Taehyung, get your ass outside now. I’ve hauled a truckload of food and beer and I’m not going to set up the party by myself.” He closed in and grabbed Taehyung’s collar, at the same time giving Jimin a window of opportunity to wiggle free from the alpha.“I’m on Team Jungkook this time.” Jimin laughed when he caught that betrayed expression on Taehyung’s face. He moved aside and watched the two cousins wrestle each other like frenzied puppies, tumbling onto the sheets. Maybe it was true that boys who grew up together never grew apart.Perhaps sensing the joyous atmosphere, Taehyung surrendered and grudgingly followed as Jungkook towed him out of the room. True to Jungkook’s words, it was indeed a lot of food and champagne to celebrate a new beginning. Jungkook had gone to great lengths to assemble a feast while the rest of them were busy unpacking in the apartment. The generous feast that spread on the table had Jimin wondering if Christmas arrived early.“Cheers!” Everyone toasted in unison and glasses clinked. Then, the talking and laughter began. While Jimin spooned avocado prawn salad for Taehyung, the alpha ripped off a drumstick from the turkey and put it on Jimin’s plate.“Thanks,” he gave Taehyung a small smile.On the other side of the table, Yoongi was peeling grilled prawns out of their shells while nodding at Jungkook’s updates about some rugby game. The secretary pushed the plate of neatly peeled prawns toward Hoseok, who responded with an awestruck grin. It reminded Jimin of Hoseok’s comment that he’d marry anyone who would peel his prawns for him. Now, it surely didn’t seem like a faraway reality for his friend, and Jimin sincerely wished that Yoongi and Hoseok would go a long way. The blissful grin on Hoseok’s face made him happy.“You need the greens too,” Taehyung said, scooping some garden salad for him.Jimin slid a slice of Hawaiian pizza onto the alpha’s plate. “And here’s your carbs and oil.”Jungkook, who caught the moment decided to poke fun at them. “Ah, pineapple on pizza is offending. They should legislate a ban on it.”“I agree,” Hoseok held up his glass in support. “It’s like what, mixing coke with rice.”“Or soba with mayonnaise,” Yoongi said.“It’s still delicious, right – the pizza I mean.” Jimin chimed in, dipping his chicken with cranberry sauce. “The ham on the pizza neutralises everything.”“I like it,” Taehyung commented as he chewed on a bite of his pizza. “I once had a kiwi and peach sandwich from 7-11 in Tokyo and trust me, that combination worked.”“Ewww!” Hoseok’s face wrinkled in disgust.Jungkook took a swig of his beer, then eyed Taehyung and Jimin. “I’m starting to think that the idea of putting the both of you together was bad. I could picture you guys concocting disastrous food recipes.”Taehyung aimed him an arrogant ‘suck it up’ look as the ‘argument’ took on an animated life of its own.The evening was shaping to be one of Jimin’s favourite days. It was all he could ask for, tucked in the safety and bliss of a new home, surrounded by people who mattered. He would worry about his other problem later. He ignored the nagging feeling tugging at his chest and focused on his food. After cleaning up, they gathered before the TV over a game of Dragons and Dungeons. While Jungkook and Hoseok were hoarding the controls with Yoongi refereeing the game, Taehyung and Jimin slipped out to the park downstairs.With autumn in full swing, the air was chilly and light. Crimson leaves blew gently against the breeze, under the soft moonlight. As they strolled on the pebbled path, Taehyung took Jimin’s hand and linked their fingers together.For weeks, Jimin’s emotions had ridden on a roller coaster that almost trampled him. The hairs on the back of his neck would still prickle with fear whenever he thought of Chen. Slowly but surely, that fear was ebbing away, and he was able to sleep better these days. Relief was all Jimin could feel when the police had finished recording his statement a few days ago. Taehyung had sat beside him while he gave his statement, acting as an anchor of support for Jimin. Chen’s case had now been forwarded to the prosecution’s side. Word from Taehyung’s lawyers were that the guy would be locked up for a long time.Now that the storm was over, even a simple walk in the park with Taehyung felt liberating. The alpha’s hand was big, and warm and covered his. Really, it was the little moments in life that mattered.They paused at a wooden bench before the fairy fountain.  Taehyung turned towards Jimin. He had something to say, Jimin knew.There was a short silence as Jimin searched Taehyung’s face, giving him time.Then, Taehyung reached inside his coat and produced a folded document. The escorting contract which he’d signed stared back at him. It was the contract which Jimin had so innocuously signed months ago in desperation for money. The contract, that started everything between them.“This is redundant now,” Taehyung said. He tore the document into two, and then into two again. Jimin’s eyes followed the crumpled ball of papers as it hurtled across the air and disappeared into the trash bin.“Nice shot,” Jimin remarked. “But must you do that in front of me?”The alpha’s serious face was oddly amusing. “It’s a symbolism, that we are the real thing now.”“So dramatic.”“It’s important,” Taehyung insisted.Jimin tried to keep it light. He sat down on the bench, thinking of the other problem on his mind.“Your turn now,” Taehyung said, unhurried. The alpha knew that he, too had something to say.With his eyes on the fountain, Jimin drew in a quiet breath. “It’s about the strawberry farm. Now that we are a real couple, it means that I’m no longer your escort and I’m going to have to find some way to make money.”“You can treat the money as monthly allowance. It’s nothing much to me, really.” Taehyung said. “Are you sure you don’t want me to buy over the farm? I know we talked about this before but I can arrange to meet the landlord and get this sorted out in a day. The title deed can be in your name-”“No,” Jimin interrupted, his senses turning sharp at the alpha’s offer. The image of Kim Sooro’s disdainful frown came into mind. He couldn’t bear the idea of Taehyung’s father thinking that he was a gold digger. “No,” he emphasised to Taehyung again. “I want to do this myself. I… can’t rely on you for such a huge favour. That’s going too far.”“What are your plans? Tell me.”Jimin kept silent for a while, brooding over the subject.  He averted Taehyung’s gaze and plucked distractedly on a loose thread on his sweater. “It’s just an idea. It’s not confirmed yet and I won’t do it if you don’t want me to… but I thought of taking up a job at a nightclub. The pay and benefits seem promising.”“What kind of nightclub, and what will you be working there as?” Taehyung asked quietly.“I don’t mean club hosts – there are those in the club too but I’m not applying for those positions. They are also recruiting servers to fetch drinks to customers. It’ll be midnight shifts but they provide meals and transport, and I heard that the customers give generous tips.”“You think I would agree to my boyfriend working in a sleazy pub. Do you not have any idea what kind of danger you are putting yourself in?” At the hardened edge in Taehyung’s voice, Jimin tore his eyes away from the fountain to look at him.The alpha’s nonplussed face revealed nothing about his thoughts, but the undercurrents in his dark eyes spoke volumes of incredulity at Jimin’s proposal.Jimin dropped his head in embarrassment. The idea of working as a server in a nightclub had seemed sensible in his head, but sounded absurd coming out of his mouth. After all, he had promised Taehyung that he would not think about silly ways of making money again. Still, the pressure of paying debts daunted him and he couldn’t think of any other way.“I guess that was a bad idea,” Jimin mumbled, a lousy mood settling over him. “I spoke to Hobi about it yesterday and he got angry.”“You can’t blame him for that,” Taehyung said. He moved to crouch down before Jimin. Resting a hand on Jimin’s, he continued in a measured tone. “I’m glad that you talked to me about it, rather than bottling up yourself. If there’s one thing I hope you’ll do, promise me that you will never put yourself in any danger. Your safety and well-being are my priority, Mochi.”The fear and guilt that surfaced in Taehyung’s eyes stung Jimin’s heart. “I’m sorry,” Jimin said in a rush. “I don’t mean to. I’m sorry.”“No,” Taehyung said, squeezing his hand. His other hand cupped Jimin’s chin. “I don’t want you to feel sorry for yourself. We will figure a way out together.”Jimin nodded. “Okay, but promise me that you won’t buy the farm. I need to do this by myself.”Taehyung gave him a long searching look, as if he were deciding on a tough choice. Finally, he relented. “I promise.”Jimin gave a tight smile. He got to his feet from the bench at the same time when Taehyung stood up.“I have another solution in mind,” Taehyung said, his mind doubtlessly working fast. “You can continue to work in my company. Since you don’t fancy business development, you can consider the graphic design department. We have positions open for character designers.”“Oh.” Jimin perked up at the piece of news. “Do I get to design characters for the company’s games?” It was something he’d like to do, drawing and sketching. Art had always been his passion and it was obvious that Taehyung was playing his cards well.“Yup,” the alpha gave a nod. “You will be part of the creative design team that creates novel characters based on the game requirements. I’d say your scope of work will be more on arts and design, rather than marketing. If you don’t mind, I propose to take twenty percent of your salary each month to make separate investments on your behalf. I can multiply those money and you can use the ROI for the farm mortgage.”“ROI?” Jimin was puzzled.“Returns on investments. Trust me, Jimin, I’m good with figures and the stock market. I can multiply your earnings for you. In this way, you cannot say that you’re taking advantage of me anymore. You will be making your own income and growing them from investments. I’m simply your financial advisor.”Jimin was trying to comprehend the brilliance of his boyfriend’s mind that he must have appeared dumbfounded.Taehyung slid his arms around Jimin’s waist.  “It’s your choice though. If you don’t want to do it, we can think of something else.”“I like your proposal. It’s just… Will I make a good character designer?”Taehyung pinched the tip of his nose gently. “Have more confidence in yourself, Mochi. Everything will be fine because you’re going to be doing what you love, and that’s the difference.”The alpha’s assurance was the final push Jimin needed. He offered a determined smile. “Okay, I’ll give it a try. Thank you for taking this load off me.”“Thank me later when you see the results,” the alpha whispered into Jimin’s ear. Warmth brushed through Jimin and he leaned his head against Taehyung’s chest, dwelling in the sweetness of this moment. Later, Jimin decided to spend the night at Taehyung’s place upon the alpha’s request.After changing into their pyjamas, Taehyung led Jimin to the rooftop of his mansion.“I have something to show you,” the alpha said as they emerged from the stairs to the open rooftop. The night was beautiful and clear, with the sky glittering with stars.They cuddled together on a huge beanbag under a blanket, star gazing and soaking in moonlight. Taehyung showed Jimin the stars in the sky, telling him their signs and constellations.“I didn’t know you are into astronomy,” Jimin said, nuzzling up closer to Taehyung.One arm bent behind his head, Taehyung’s other free hand stroked Jimin’s hair. “Someone I used to be close to has an interest in astronomy. It rubbed off on me and I studied the subject for a while. That was years ago when I was still in school.Jimin turned his face to look at Taehyung, piqued by interest. “And you still remember the constellation’s names. That person must be really important to you.”There was an almost imperceptible tension in Taehyung’s breath before he brushed it off with a good-natured sigh. “Not anymore. I want to show you these because stargazing has a therapeutic effect.”“It is,” Jimin breathed. His eyes returned to the beautiful night sky, at the stars sparkling with splendour above them. “I think I’m going to sleep well tonight.”“You will,” Taehyung assured. “I will keep the nightmares away.” He continued stroking Jimin’s hair and hummed quietly, a low lullaby.Not long later, Jimin’s eyelids felt leaden as his body relaxed, wrapped in Taehyung’s arms and sharing his body warmth. When Jimin next woke, he was nestled comfortably under the covers in Taehyung’s bedroom. True to the alpha’s promise, Jimin had had a restful night of sleep. No nightmares.His fingers brushed over the empty side of the large bed. Taehyung must be already in his study, he mused sleepily. He slid off the bed and made his way downstairs to prepare breakfast.As Jimin stepped into the kitchen, he was welcomed with the view of Taehyung wearing an apron over his pyjamas, and busying himself before the counter. His eyes took in the strips of potato skin strewn all over the chopping board and counter surface. A roll of lettuce lolled on the floor, clearly forgotten by the alpha.“Do you need any help?” Jimin asked, confused by the scene before him.Taehyung frowned at the sloppily peeled potato he was holding. “How do we get the skin out?” His other hand held a small knife. “I’ve been wrestling with it but it always slips off.”Jimin took the potato from the alpha. “You need to boil them first before peeling. We also need to a peeler.”“A peeler?”“I can show you how.” Jimin moved to retrieve a peeler from the drawer, followed by a pot from the cabinet. “What are you making?”“Potato salad and chicken chop. The meat is still in the fridge.”“Oh, then we need to take it out and set the grill too.”“Show me how.” Taehyung rolled up his sleeves which had slipped down.Jimin smiled. “Okay.”It was the first time seeing the alpha cook. In the past, the most he did was clear the table and put the dishes away.“You could have woken me up, you know,” Jimin said.“That would defeat the whole purpose,” Taehyung said, setting the pan on the stove and mulling over the bottles of condiments.“What purpose?” “I wanted to make breakfast for you, but as you can see-” his eyes roamed to the mess before him. “- it’s a spectacular flop.”“Well, there’s always a first time,” Jimin said. “At least your efforts are commendable. Thank you, I appreciate that. I’ll show you how to make these so that you can cook for people next time.”“No. I will only cook for you. Show me how.”Jimin shook his head in mild amusement. He moved around the counter, showing Taehyung how to boil and peel the potatoes. He pocketed the new knowledge that even though Taehyung was a fast learner in many trades, cooking wasn’t his forte. Jimin was in his element, confident that when it comes to cooking, he could do it better than Taehyung.With Jimin taking the lead, they finished whipping up the salad and moved on to put the marinated meat on the sizzling pan.“Who taught you how to cook?” Taehyung asked, transferring the grilled chicken chops to the plates when Jimin gave the okay sign.“My mom. When I was young, my parents spent most of their days at the farm. It was a routine for me to cook for the family.” Jimin felt a smile on his lips as he recalled his childhood. “I still like buying groceries from food markets, especially those near my hometown. You can get fresh produce at good bargains.”“Tell me about your hometown and the strawberry farm,” Taehyung said.“You already know about Geumjeong.” Jimin replied, remembering conversations they had had before about childhood times. “It’s a simple town. My family stays in the suburbs, about a two-hour drive from Busan city.”“Tell me more.” Taehyung urged encouragingly.“Hmm, we didn’t have much, but I was happy - I still am - with the way things are. Appa and Omma let me be as carefree as I want. They didn’t demand high grades from me and were happy as long as I passed the exams.”“Which is why you grow up into such a wholesome person,” Taehyung pointed out. “You see the good in everyone and never lose your childlike innocence.” The envy in his tone prompted Jimin as to why he hardly talked about his carefree childhood with Taehyung - he didn’t want to remind the alpha of his suffocating one.But Taehyung’s features were relaxed, obvious that he could read Jimin’s mind. “Don’t feel apologetic for being happy. Let’s go back together someday.”“Really?” Jimin casted a hopeful glance at Taehyung, unable to conceal his surprise. “You want to see my hometown?”“Yes.” Taehyung’s answer came quick without hesitation.When the cooking was done, they worked together to set up the table. Out of habit, Jimin pulled out the blender to make Taehyung’s protein shake.“I’ll skip that today,” the alpha told him. He took the blender from Jimin and put it back to the shelf.“But… don’t you always have that in the morning?” Jimin was puzzled. Was he missing something?Taehyung smiled and flicked Jimin’s nose. “It’s doesn’t hurt to treat myself to something better once in a while” He motioned to the breakfast spread on the table. “Come on, you will overeat if you finish all these yourself. Let’s eat together while the food is warm.”Out of all the breakfasts Jimin had had with Taehyung, today’s had got to be the sweetest one.+++End

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Jimin sat in the waiting room across from the nurse’s station, a wrapped box of home baked cookies on his lap.It was a while later when Jin popped in. The doctor was in a white robe and a stethoscope hanging loosely around his neck.“Hi.” Jin seemed surprised. “I wasn’t expecting you.” Jimin stood up, a polite smile on his face. “I’m sorry for coming here without telling you. Is this a bad time?”Jin’s warmth and geniality immediately put Jimin at ease. “There’s hardly a good time in the hospital, and I’m in need of a break. You came at the right time.”“I brought some cookies if you don’t mind.” Jimin held up the box.  “Let’s go to my office.”As he followed Jin down the corridors, Jimin couldn’t help but admire Jin’s elegance and calm, especially amidst the muffled rush of a busy hospital. It was as though the murmured rush and clatter of hospital business couldn’t affect him.“My office’s at the end of the block on the top floor,” Jin said as they passed the observation wards. He opened the door for Jimin and motioned him inside his office.While Jin made tea, Jimin glanced about the room from the couch. Jin’s office was neat and minimalistic, contrary to Jimin’s perception that doctors had messy desks overflowing with papers and files. A blend of turquoise and ocean blue graced the walls, adding a touch of cosiness to the place. A long desk with an ergonomically designed computer took up a corner, overseeing the city view outside. Even the leather sleeper chair that took up the other corner looked comfortable and inviting.As Jimin’s eyes skimmed the space, a framed picture of Jin and Namjoon on the bookshelf caught his eyes. He leaned forward in his couch for a better view. In the picture, Namjoon and Jin had their arms wrapped around each other as they posed before a giant waterfall, lovers’ smiles on their faces.“That was in Niagara Falls last year,” Jin said as he came over with a tray of tea.Jimin pulled back, frazzled as if he’s being caught for snooping around.But the affectionate smile that graced Jin’s face told him that he didn’t mind. The doctor took the armchair opposite him and set the tray down.Jin leaned back and crossed his leg. “How are you feeling?”“I’m well now. Thank you for attending to me that night.” Embarrassment heated Jimin’s cheeks as he continued, “Taehyung told me how you came to his place and attended to me. I wanted to meet you and thank you in person soon, but I was caught up with stuff…” He fell momentarily silent, unsure as to how to continue. Truth was, Jimin had spent the past two weeks recovering (and still was) from the trauma, settling down in his new apartment and adjusting to the new rhythm of his relationship with Taehyung.“That’s totally understandable. I’m glad to see that you are fine,” Jin said good-naturedly. He slid a cup of warm-filled tea to Jimin and helped himself to a piece of cookie. Jimin’s gaze wandered back to the shelf, at the row of astronomy titles that had caught his attention earlier. “Do you like astronomy?”Jin followed his eyes. “I do. It’s something Joon – Namjoon and I do when we have time.”“Taehyung told me he used to study the stars too,” Jimin said.Jin blinked, surprised at the revelation. He said, “Taehyung’s into many things. He likes dabbling with stuff that pique his curiosity.”“Or maybe he wanted to know you better. I think he did, and still does,” Jimin pointed out, feeling compelled to put in a word for Taehyung and let Jin know the efforts which the alpha had put in. “Taehyng doesn’t act the way he truly thinks and it’s easy to misunderstand him. But he’s a kind person… he-” He paused when he caught that bemused expression on Jin’s face. “Sorry… I talk too much.”But Jin didn’t seem to mind. If anything, he looked impressed. “No one has ever spoken so fondly of Taehyung in a long time. What you just said reminds me of what my younger brother is like. I’m happy to know that you are the one with him.”“Huh?” Jimin darted a blank look at Jin. It took a moment for him to understand that Jin was referring to his relationship with the alpha. He felt a smile peek at his lips as he said, “We are still new to this.”“New to this?” Now it was Jin’s turn to be confused. “Hadn’t you been seeing Taehyung for a while?”Oh, shit. Shit. Shit. Shit. Jimin was so absorbed in his happy bubble that he’d forgotten that Jin, like many others, wasn’t aware that his relationship with the alpha had originally begun as an escorting arrangement, a bluff to the world.“Sor-sorry-” Jimin’s mind ransacked for a believable explanation. “I-I mean Taehyung and I are still trying to get to know each other even better.” That part was true. To keep himself from spewing out more silly stuff, he grabbed a cookie from the box and munched on it.Understanding dawned on Jin’s face but the way Jimin panicked must have tickled him. He covered his mouth with the back of his hand and laughed. “That’s interesting. Taehyung is a challenge to read, but I’m sure you will be fine. I can see that he takes to you a lot.”“Really?” Hope surfaced.“That’s for sure,” Jin said resolutely. “I haven’t seen him brighten up in such a long time. You can’t out a price tag on happiness.”Over tea and cookies, their conversation continued. Besides routine stuff like work and life, Jin and Jimin talked about their interests and hobbies. The doctor felt like a friend to Jimin, and he put Jimin at ease with his welcoming demeanour and encouraging words. He complimented Jimin’s cookies with genuine admiration and Jimin promised to send the recipe to him.To Jimin’s surprise, Jin also revealed that besides astronomy, he liked sketching and doodling in his free time. But his commitment to the medical profession meant that his free time was often reduced to a once-in-a-blue-moon affair. The similar hobbies they shared made Jimin felt as if Jin was his alternate, but definitely a much better, more sophisticated version of himself.  Jin’s eyes lit up with interest and their exchanges turned animated as they talked about art and the comics they liked to read. Adding on to Jimin’s surprise, Jin liked Naruto too. Jimin couldn’t help but wonder if Jin had pursued medicine only to fulfil the expectations of Kim Sooro, his adoptive father. If so, how did it feel to bury your dreams and build a career that was the family’s?“It takes a lot to pursue your passion and turn your dreams into reality,” Jin commented, filling their cups with a new pot of tea. The box of cookies was empty by now.“Are you happy?” Jimin asked because he was curious.Jin contemplated his question and took a slow sip from his cup. “I guess I am,” he said as putting the cup down and leaning back. “We all have a choice. I’m not brave like Taehyung to leave the family and start something from scratch. All I can say is that I’m committed enough to see through my decision, even if it doesn’t align with my dreams. I’ve chosen stability over adventure but right now, at this moment,-” he lowered his gaze and toyed with the ring around his fourth finger, “-I’m convinced that I’ve made the right choice. It’s our choice.”Jimin nodded hearteningly, connecting the dots that stability and a lifetime together were a decision which Jin had made with Namjoon, his other half.“Then that’s it.” He smiled at the doctor. “You will be happy as long as you know what you truly want.”Jin’s true north was Namjoon – that was clear from the content expression on his face, and the way his gaze sparkled as he eyed the ring around his fourth finger.The conversation with Jin left Jimin with food for thought. Was it possible for everyone in this universe to find their true north? Could a person find his true north in another? If so, was Taehyung his true north? Or was it too early to tell? After he left the hospital, Jimin spent the next hour in a café while waiting for Taehyung to pick him up. The alpha had a meeting nearby the area and they were heading out for dinner after that. He was drawing on his sketchbook while enjoying his cup of caramel latte when someone came up to him.“Jimin…”It was Kai, sporting a surprised smile.Jimin dropped his pencil onto the table. Panic was the first thing that dashed into his brain and body.Kai glanced around the café which had few customers at this time of the day, then back at the empty chair opposite Jimin. “May I sit down?”They were in public and the rational side of Jimin assured him that he was safe. Still, his nerves rattled with unease. His eyes darted to the door, desperate for Taehyung to appear. What did Kai want with him now? Hadn’t they called it quits a long time ago?“I won’t do anything to you,” Kai promised, sensing Jimin’s dread.Watching him with wary eyes, Jimin gave a small, hesitant nod.“Thank you.” A relieved Kai took the chair opposite him.“Is…there anything you need from me?” Jimin asked, trying to be as brave as possible.Kai folded his fingers together and meet Jimin’s eyes. “I’ve been wanting to get in touch with you, find out how you’ve been doing, but I was too ashamed to do that.”“Well… I’m good.” Jimin gulped. He closed his sketchbook and put it away. He was still shocked at the unexpected encounter with Kai, and more shocked that there was none of that hostility in Kai’s demeanour. In fact, the man before him seemed subdued and …defeated. A touch of sympathy had him asking, “How have you been?”“Not that great, actually,” Kai said with a tired drop of his head. “Dad’s company almost went bust a few weeks ago and the pressure has taken a toll on his health. I’m now struggling to manage the family business.”“I’m sorry to hear that,” Jimin said, and meant it. Despite the crappy way Kai had treated him, Kai’s father was not a bad person. “How is Senior Kim coping now?”“My father’s still recuperating, but definitely getting there,” Kai said. “I just want to say thank you to you. Without Mr Kim’s help, my family would’ve been bankrupt.”Now Jimin was completely lost. Why was Kai thanking him and who was this Mr. Kim? “Sorry, Kai, I’m afraid I don’t get you.”“V Inc. bought over our company last month,” Kai went on to explain. “I thought that was the end of us, that they would kick us out and take complete charge with new board members. But Mr. Kim – Kim Taehyung, I mean, didn’t do that. Although he restructured our board to include his people, he didn’t write me and my father off. We’re still given minority say in company matters... “ Shame washed his face as he continued, “After what I had done to him, making use of the information that you’d accidentally divulged to me for our advantage, I’m surprised that he didn’t press any charges against us.”Jimin pondered Kai’s words, said quietly, “I see…”“So, it must have been you who talked to Mr. Kim, right?” Kai looked up earnestly. “You persuaded him to help us out. I didn’t think that you would do that, after all the awful things I did to you. I owe you big this time.”“Wait,” Jimin held up a hand, bewildered and still trying to put together the situation. “Why did you think I talked to Taehyung about you? I-I didn’t know anything about your company’s situation until now.”Kai’s eyes rounded with surprise, probably at the way Jimin was addressing Taehyung by his first name. “That’s strange then. I mean, when Mr. Kim warned me at the ballroom to stay away from you, I thought you were his trustworthy employee, and that you must have spoken to him. If not, how else would he bother to save my family business from insolvency?”Jimin tried to brush away the awful memories of how Kai had purposely tripped him during his first social networking function as an employee of V Inc. It all seemed so yesterday. He pointed out to Kai objectively, “Taehyung works in his own ways. He could’ve seen some value in helping you out. I don’t pry into his business affairs and dealings.”“That’s strange though…” Kai rubbed his chin, still unconvinced.From Kai’s words, it was obvious to Jimin that he had no idea of what happened between Chen and him. It was best to leave things as it is.Jimin changed the subject. “Anyway, it’s good to see you like this, learning the ropes and looking more driven.”Kai straightened in his seat as he put on a serious face. Something like hope danced in his eyes as he said, “Circumstances do change people. I thought I was going to lose my father and the family business for good. I’m grateful for a second chance. I don’t want to let my family down again.”“Keep going the way you are now and you’ll be fine.” Jimin encouraged. He lifted his cup and sipped on his latte.Kai laughed under his breath, scratching his head.  “That is what I’ve always fancied about you, Jimin. You’re so full of positive vibes. Even after the way I treated you, you still talk to me like a friend would. You make people want to keep you in their circles, Jimin.” He looked away, his cheeks blushing as he went on, “I was wondering… would like to hang out one of these days? I’d like to really catch up with you. I feel like we are not done yet-”Jimin thought his ears must be playing a prank on him. The latte gushed down his windpipe, choking him. His cup clattered against the saucer as he started coughing and gulping air.“Goodness- are you all right?”  Kai leaned forward to pat Jimin but he lifted a hand to stop him.“I-I’m- fine-” Jimin turned away from Kai, keeping a safe distance. He covered his mouth with a serviette and couldn’t stop coughing for a while.When he regained his composure at last, Kai was still looking at him like an expectant puppy.“Kai-” Jimin gulped, taking on a more solemn tone. “I need to tell you something-”“Good evening, Jimin.”That low, silky voice which Jimin was so used to cut off his sentence mid-air. In an instance, horror erased the puppy look on Kai’s face as he stared agape at the person standing behind Jimin.With a sense of relief, Jimin stood up and turned to find Taehyung smiling at him.“You’re finally here,” he sighed at the alpha.  “I was wondering when you’ll come.”“I got caught up, but I see that you’re catching up with an old friend.” That affectionate smile which was only reserved for Jimin instantly froze to ice as he locked eyes with Kai. “Good evening, Kai”.Kai stood up gingerly, as though his legs had forgotten their coordination. His throat bobbed with a noticeable swallow. “G-good ev-evening, Mr. Kim. I-I was just catching up with Ji-Jimin, I didn’t mean any harm.”Jimin added proudly, “Kai told me how you’ve saved his company.”Taehyung waved a hand as if to imply that it was a small matter. He snaked his arm around Jimin’s waist and squeezed, staking his claim. The alpha’s lips curved into a gracious yet arrogant smile as he told Kai, “Thank you for taking care of Jimin while I was away.”Kai flitted his eyes between Taehyung and Jimin, his mouth hanging open.“Oh,” Jimin lifted a finger, as if remembering something important. “I forgot to introduce but it doesn’t matter since you’ve both met. This is my boyfriend, Kim Taehyung.”The disbelief on Kai’ face was priceless. “You are dating my boss?”“Would you like to join us for dinner?” Taehyung asked, his smile deceptively civil.Kai caught the sign, crestfallen but still staring at Jimin in disbelief. “I’ll skip. I-I need to go back to the office to check some stuff.”“Nice. Don’t work too hard,” Taehyung said.“We’ll make a move then,” Jimin said. “See you.” Taehyung’s armour of graciousness peeled off the second they stepped out of the café, replaced by a tirade of childlike anger.“I saw the way he looked at you. His fucking dreamy face like he was having wild wet dreams,” Taehyung fumed. “He wants you back, doesn’t he? That fucking jackass shithole scumbag son of a bitch motherfuc-”Jimin tipped his toes and sealed the alpha’s childish rants with a kiss. Taehyung’s eyes widened at the touch of the boy’s lips.Jimin smiled at him. “I’m still here with you, aren’t I?”Taehyung brushed the tip of his nose against Jimin’s. “Looks like I have to work harder to keep those wolves off my boyfriend.” Jimin chuckled. “I felt a kick of satisfaction at the look on his face when I told him that you are my boyfriend.”“Serves him right.” The alpha kissed him on his lips.“Serves him right,” Jimin echoed. He hooked his arm in Taehyung’s as they walked down the street. “I’m proud of you for treating him nicely.”“I swore I could’ve ripped his face off,” Taehyung grimaced.Maybe the old Taehyung would have done just that, Jimin thought. “Why did you help him?” He asked.Taehyung shrugged with nonchalance. “It’s a small investment for V Inc. Jungkook and his team reckoned that it makes sense to incubate a few local enterprises and pump in some money.“You didn’t fire Kai,” Jimin stated.Taehyung shrugged again. “I made a deal with his father, that I would keep his son. You don’t want to make an old man worry. Besides, there’s no difference between keeping him and firing him anyway.”Jimin smiled at him. It was nice, knowing that he was right about Taehyung’s kindness even though the alpha always downplayed it.Linking arms, they turned a corner down the street towards the burger joint which Jimin had suggested for dinner. The evening street was starting to get busy with office workers joining the rush hour traffic. Taehyung watched out for cars and led Jimin across the road.“Enough about me,” Taehyung said once they got to the sidewalk again. “Tell me about your day. What did you do?”“I went to see Jin,” Jimin replied. Taehyung lifted a curious brow at him.“We talked about you,” Jimin added.The alpha’s face turned sharp with wary, obviously not expecting this.Jimin’s eyes narrowed as he slid a knowing look at the alpha.  “Ah… we talked about the things you did. Woah, I never expected you’d do that.”“Wait” the alpha interrupted, halting his tracks. His usual cool superiority cracked. “I can explain this.”As Taehyung acted like a guilty teenager caught in the act, Jimin chuckled. “I was only teasing you.”The alpha’s shoulders stiffened a beat before his control came back. Then, he pinched the tip of Jimin’s nose with playful exasperation. “I didn’t expect that from you.”Good-humouredly, Jimin slapped Taehyung’s hand away. “Look at how you panicked.” He laughed.“What did you and Jin talked about?” Taehyung asked.“Various stuff. I’m surprised to know that we share so many similar interests. You know he recommended this nice place to get art supplies…” Jimin babbled on, and proceeded to fill him in on the details as they made their way to the burger joint. Taehyung was a hundred and twenty percent certain that he and his expensive Armani suit didn’t belong to a burger joint that rolled out oily junk food. The sounds and smells of frying food, and having to queue before the self-ordering kiosks felt out of place to him. When was the last time he’d stepped into a fast-food chain? Maybe when he was fourteen, while playing truant with Jungkook?A part of him chided himself for not insisting on reserving a table at the Greek restaurant newly opened by a Michelin chef.But the joy on Jimin’s face as he scanned the menu on display dragged him back to the here and now. Afterall, they had made a promise to each other, that they would take turns to suggest places to eat out whenever they didn’t feel like cooking. It was Jimin’s turn today, and the boy had wanted to come here.“I highly recommend their steak burger with melted cheese, topped with nachos as sides. It’s their autumn feature,” Jimin said, tapping the menu on the self-service ordering machine. “They have garden salads as add-ons if you want something heathier- Ooh, their sweet potato pie is back!”Jimin’s enthusiasm brought a smile to Taehyung’s face. His concerns about the place disappeared. “I’ll have what you have,” he said to Jimin. He was ready to take out his credit card when Jimin stopped him.“It’s my turn today, remember?” Jimin said. He confirmed their orders and tapped his cash card on the machine.Jimin collected their food and joined Taehyung at one of the booths where he sat.  Since it would look dumb to ask for a plastic fork and knife, Taehyung tackled his huge burger the way people eating fast food would. He grabbed the burger in his hands and took a big bite the way Jimin did.Surprisingly, the burger was better than he’d expected. The juicy beef practically melted in his mouth, so tender and lean.“How is it?” Jimin asked expectantly.“Better than cat food,” Taehyung said with a cocky twitch of his mouth.Clear to Jimin that he wasn’t serious, the boy grinned smugly. “Hobi and I often come here when we have time. They serve the best burgers in this area.”  Taehyung nodded agreeably and started on the pile of fries which Jimin had poured out onto the tray between them.  He watched Jimin mixed tomato sauce with mayonnaise for the fries, and insisted that he gave it a try. Much to Taehyung’s surprise, the peculiar concoction worked well for the fries. Soon, they were both enjoying their food over idle conversations. Taehyung had almost forgotten how much he’d missed eating at fast-food chains.These days, he was beginning to see what Jimin meant when he said that it was the company that mattered more than the food. Taehyung knew that years down the road, no matter what happened, this would be one of the simplest and happiest meal he’d ever had.+++End

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The following week arrived, when time finally came for Jimin to go back to work. Returning to V Inc., this time as graphic designer, felt familiar yet new to him. Jimin was concerned about how his new role would turn out. Even though Taehyung had assured him umpteen times that he would do well, the jitters still caught him.The actions of Chen’s misdeeds towards the company had become widespread news in the media and took everyone in the company by surprise. After all, he had always been known as Mr. Nice Guy and it was difficult to reconcile this image with his misdeeds.People who wondered about Jimin’s absence had been given to understand that he was on hiatus because he needed a break. Judging from their reactions as they warmly welcomed him back to the team, it seemed like nobody knew what had happened between him and Chen. On this, Jimin was grateful that Taehyung had taken care of things, protecting the privacy he needed from nosy intruders.“It’s great to see you again,” Tao bumped shoulders with him, looking happier than Jimin had remembered. “Even if we are on separate floors now, we must still eat out together, all right?”“How about today?” Jimin suggested, happy to see a familiar face. “I have yet to congratulate you on your promotion. Congratulations, Tao. I’m happy for you.”“On, man,” Tao clapped him a high-five. “I’ll ask Heechul to join us.”Moments later, after catching up with his colleagues, Yoongi came to bring Jimin to his new workspace.But the secretary led him to an office door a few rooms away from Taehyung’s“Wait, is this where I will be working from now?” Jimin couldn’t hide his surprise as they stepped inside the room. He saw a long curvy glass desk with a long, flat screen computer, built-in shelves and even a corner with a coffee table and a twin coach. The room looked like a CEO’s room.“According to Taehyung, this is your workspace,” Yoongi said. “If you need anything else or if the furniture’s not to your liking, we can arrange for replacement.”Jimin winced. “No, that’s not the problem.” It was becoming difficult to brooch the subject. “I’m not hired at a managerial position. Shouldn’t I be sitting outside instead of having my own room?”A voice cut in, “I want you to have your own space.” It was Taehyung, who had appeared at the door way.Yoongi directed a nod at the alpha and took his leave.“Why do I get my own room?” Jimin asked when they were alone. He didn’t want any special treatment just because he was the CEO’s boyfriend. He had underestimated how out of place things would turn out. Already, some people in the company were giving him curious looks when he came into the office with Taehyung this morning. The alpha hadn’t bothered to be discreet about their relationship now. It was as though he wanted everyone in the world to know that Jimin was his.Taehyung shook his head with a bemused grin. “I want you to have your own space. Do you like it?”Jimin took a deep breath. He didn’t know what to say, especially since the alpha seemed so proud of himself for giving him a room.As the silent ensued, Taehyung’s humour turned into concern.“Don’t you like it?” he asked, touching Jimin’s arm.“This is new to me, to us. We went from a business arrangement to a real thing and-” Jimin paused, sensing the alpha’s darkening mood. “People will talk and think that I’m getting special treatment because I’m your boyfriend.”“You are my boyfriend,” Taehyung emphasized.“Which is why I think this is a bad idea.”But the alpha remained unmoved. He slipped his hands into his pockets and put on his business attitude. “I don’t see any problem with giving you a room. It’s just a room, Mochi. It’s my company. I get to decide how I use my resources. I want you to feel comfortable working here.”“I don’t feel comfortable now.”“You will get used to it. I’m doing what’s best for my boyfriend.”You will get used to it. It was a phrase the alpha had been throwing in whenever he gave something to Jimin these days.Jimin let out a helpless sigh. “We won’t get anywhere far if we can’t see eye to eye on things like these.”“We won’t get far if you care too much about what people think. Look at it this way, Jimin, it’s our relationship, just the two of us. The others have no business prying into our affairs.”“It’s not that simple.” Jimin replied. He wished it was that simple. He only wanted Taehyung to understand the position he was putting him in, by showering him with such luxuries. People would talk. Jimin didn’t want to give them reasons to talk about them.“You already accepted my proposal  to come back here,” Taehyung analysed objectively. “One room isn’t going to make any difference.”Jimin straightened himself. Even though he was worried about what he was about to say, he said it anyway. “I don’t think I should be working here if this is the arrangement. I will look for another job if you insist on putting me here.”Taehyung tensed, thrown off rhythm by Jimin’s comeback. At the hardened look in Taehyung’s eyes which Jimin had now recognised as hurt, maybe even anger, he regretted his words. Still, he couldn’t let his position waver. “Fine.” Taehyung gave in coldly. “Grab any desk you fancy outside and do what you want.” He left the room, a trail of suppressed temper shadowing him. An argument with Taehyung was a bad way to start his first day back at work. Jimin felt lousy, low-in-the-dumps lousy to be on opposing sides with the alpha.  He found himself an empty workspace outside and had a guy from IT set up his computer.Even if his day started on a rough note with Taehyung, he wanted to make himself useful. He spent his morning looking at archives of past projects undertaken by the design team. He talked to his co-workers about new projects and asked for work to do. From time to time, he would wonder about what Taehyung was doing.Jimin made his way to the pantry twice. He got himself latte from the coffee machine, then made a surreptitious detour to pass by Taehyung’s office, even though it wasn’t on the way back to his work station. The glass pane revealed the alpha’s office. The lights were on, but Taehyung wasn’t inside. From the way the office chair was facing away from the desk and the blinking light on his computer, it looked like Taehyung had left for some meeting.Jimin’s shoulders sank in disappointment as he made his way back to his work station. Was he being insensitive in rejecting the personal office room from Taehyung? Was it wrong to want to be treated in the same manner as other employees? As Jimin thought back to the time he’d spent with Taehyung since they’d gotten back together, he had been finding a reason, an acceptable justification each time the alpha gave him something.The morning rolled by and when lunch time arrived, Jimin made another trip to Taehyung’s office. Still no sign of the alpha. As Yoongi was nowhere in sight too, Jimin gathered that they must be out of office.For lunch, Jimin settled for a café across the street with Tao and Heechul. It was good to catch up with the colleagues he’d missed. He tried to keep on track with the conversation over food, but his mind kept drifting back to Taehyung.Later, while making his way out of the cafe, Jimin chanced upon a basket of nicely wrapped muffins at the counter. The muffins came in assorted flavours, including blueberry, Taehyung’s favourite fruit. Jimin grabbed one from the basket and paid for it. Taehyung sat in the backseat, soaking in his own crappy mood as Yoongi drove out of the building. They had just concluded another business meeting at the investors’ premises and were heading for lunch.He retrieved his phone for the umpteenth time since the morning he’d left his office.No new messages. No missed calls.Despite the irritation nagging at his mood, he wondered if Jimin had have his lunch.“Spill it out.” Jungkook’s voice pulled him out of his thoughts.Taehyung directed an impassive glance towards his cousin, who was seated next to him. “What.”“What,” Jungkook parroted. “Did you get into a fight with Jimin?”“Possible,” Yoongi muttered from the driver’s seat as he kept his eyes on the road.“You’re being stupid, Kim Taehyung,” Jungkook concluded. He opened the packet of nuts which he’d brought out with him.“You’ll be kicked out of this car if you dirty it,” Taehyung warned as his crappy mood rose to higher levels.“Yoongi’s right then,” Jungkook said and started munching on the nuts. “You fought with Jimin. Your face tells it all.”Taehyung frowned. “What makes you think that it wasn’t the other way round?”“No shit Sherlock. Jimin would never go around looking for fights.”Taehyung pinched the area between his brows, pushing down the unwelcoming thought. “Omegas. They fuck the cloud out of my mind sometimes.”Jungkook angled towards him, and tickled the alpha’s chin with his nut-stained fingers. “C’mon Taetae, fill me in.”“What the fuck.” Taehyung slapped Jungkook’s hand away.A heavy breath later, he told Jungkook what happened that morning.The pensive look on Jungkook’s face as he listened were occasionally punctuated by smirky twitches of his mouth and the noisy munching of nuts. His cousin was hiding no qualms that he was listening and judging Taehyung at the same time. While Taehyung appreciated his cousin’s support, he also wanted to punch that stupid face of his.“It’s just a bloody room,” Taehyung added. “It gets frustrating when I have to justify everything I give him before he decides if he wants to accept it.”“Pardon me for saying this, my dear Taetae,” Jungkook raised a finger at him. “You are used to getting what you want. You won’t take no for an answer. Put yourself in Jimin’s shoes. What is he thinking? Why do you think he wouldn’t accept the room?”“He said that he’s been taking too much from me, which is nonsense,” Taehyung said.“Um hmm.” Jungkook continuing chomping on the nuts. “And then?”“He doesn’t want people to talk. Who the hell are these people anyway? I don’t care what they think.”“Put it this way.” Jungkook answered, a more serious edge in his voice now as he put the packet of nuts away. “Jimin thinks that he’s a boy from the countryside - no background, no money and no powerful names to back him up.”Taehyung pinned a warning look at his cousin. “I don’t see Jimin like that.”“We don’t. Yet the truth is he does see himself that way.” Jungkook carried on. “It doesn’t matter that you don’t see him in that manner. What matters to Jimin is that he cares – and mind you, a lot – in fact too much about what people think. It’s not that these people are more important than you. He cares about what they think because it reflects back on you. My take is that he doesn’t want people to think badly of you because of him, and that stresses the hell out of him.”“Where did that come from?”  Taehyung shot out.“Are you really my genius cousin?” Jungkook sent him an impatient scowl. “Think. Jimin sees himself as a normal boy and out of nowhere he’s dating an alpha billionaire, one of the most eligible bachelors out there. To add on, this billionaire comes from an influential family with a bloody difficult father. Go figure.”And then it hit Taehyung, as though Jungkook had just slapped him on the face with a brick. He didn’t need his cousin to elaborate further. His mind glided back to the time when his father had attempted to get Jimin to leave him by offering him money. The memory swelled and left a nasty taste in Taehyung’s mouth.  Jimin had rejected his generosity not because of his pride, but because he didn’t want people to take Taehyung as a fool, to laugh behind his back that he was being taken advantage of by his boyfriend.Jungkook’s words made Taehyung realise how hard Jimin was trying to protect their relationship. And what an asshole he’d been for picking a fight with him just because he wouldn’t accept a personal office room.A pang of guilt punched Taehyung in the gut.He released a tight breath. “I didn’t know that he’d feel that way. I don’t even see him like that.” “I know you don’t,” Jungkook said. “It’s people who will and that concerns Jimin, and he possibly believes that of himself too. If the both of you’re going to work this out, you need to pay more attention to the things he doesn’t say. Unfortunately, over protecting him or pampering him with gifts are not gonna work.”“I second that,” Yoongi, who was usually quiet, concurred. “Be patient with Jimin. Your relationship with him is going to affect mine with Hobi.”It was turning out to be a chain effect.“So now you see why a relationship is not just about the two people in it?” Jungkook highlighted. “If Jimin goes crying to Hoseok, Hoseok’s sure to complain to Yoongi, who’s going to bear some of the brunt. His precious life is at stake too. You know how scary Hoseok is when he’s angry.”“Why am I getting none of these clues when you guys are?” Taehyung shot out, perplexed with himself.“Because you’re stupid in love,” Jungkook commented.“Because you’re caught up in the whirlwind,” Yoongi said at the same time.Taehyung fell silent, contemplating.Then he smirked at Jungkook. “If your lawyer career fails one day, you can consider running an agony aunt column in the magazine.”Jungkook darted a nut at Taehyung which he dodged with fast reflex. The nut hit the window.Slumping back in his seat, Jungkook blew out air. “God knows why I keep dishing out relationship advice to people when I’m holy motherfucking single.” Minutes before knockoff time, Jimin finally heard from Taehyung, in the form of a text message. The alpha mentioned that he had to attend an urgent conference call and told him not to wait for him.Jimin had meant to reply the message. He was tapping on the keypad, framing an apology but nothing seemed right. He deleted the text.He would wait for Taehyung to finish his call.When the time on his computer hit nine, Jimin powered if off and walked to the other end of the floor, where Taehyung’s office was. He didn’t see him. By now, the office was already empty of staff.Jimin turned to make his way back to his desk when he caught sight of Yoongi.“Looking for Taehyung?” the secretary asked.Jimin shifted on his feet., unsure of what to say. “I… just happened to pass by.”Yoongi’s lips bent into a slow, almost unnoticeable smile. “Taehyung’s still in the board room engaged in the call.”“Oh,” Jimin hesitated, eyeing his shoes as though they were the most fascinating objects in the world. “Err…do you know what time will it end? Is everything okay… I mean with the call?”“It’s simple business. It’s taking longer than usual because there are parties from different time zones,” Yoongi assured.“Oh…that’s… good to know.” Nothing he had to worry about.Until Yoongi said, “Taehyung hasn’t had his dinner.”Jimin raised concerned eyes at him. “He didn’t eat for the whole day?”“He had lunch, and then we were back and he’s been engaged in the call since then.”A new, unpleasant sensation weighed on Jimin. “He should have taken a break at least.” Taehyung was always hung up on Jimin not having his meals at proper times, but the alpha didn’t practice what he preached.“For your info, the tapas bar down the street should still be open,” Yoongi hinted. “You can wait for him in his room. He wouldn’t want you standing outside.” “Thanks, Yoongi. I know what to do now.” He nodded gratefully at the secretary. He was about to go back to his work station for his wallet when he remembered something. He paused and turned back to Yoongi.“For your info too,” Jimin said. “Hobi’s been hinting at you for a weekend staycation at an onsen. In case you missed it.”Yoongi blinked. A few seconds later, his eyes glinted with a smile. “Thank you, Jimin.” Another hour crawled by before Taehyung stepped out of the board room and returned to his office. Jimin got up from the couch as soon as Taehyung stepped in.“Jimin?” Surprise was written all over Taehyung’s face as he moved towards him.“Good evening,” Jimin greeted aloud. Then he stared hard at the floor, feeling stupid for saying that.“Were you waiting for me? Didn’t you get my message? I told you to go home first.”Jimin gave a small nod. “I know… but I want to wait for you.”Taehyung placed his fingers under Jimin’s chin and gently lifted his face to him. He said with a sigh, “Always keep your head up. Even when you don’t feel confident, fake it till you make it.”The warmth in the alpha’s eyes was reassuring. They didn’t look angry at all.“I don’t have that confidence of yours… but I’ll try,” Jimin promised.Taehyung bent over him and brushed his lips against his. “What did you eat for dinner? I could taste caramel and nuts.”“I had a Snickers bar.”“What? Only that?” A flicker of frown crossed Taehyung’s brows. He checked the time on his iWatch and cursed under his breath. “Give me a second. We’ll grab something nearby.”Jimin gestured at the takeaway bag on the coffee table. “I got us some tapas and protein bowls. They are still warm.”Taehyung’s features softened as his gaze roamed to the food on the table. He slipped his arms around Jimin and brought him closer in his embrace. The alpha breathed, “My boyfriend is a perfect ten.”Jimin melted in his arms. Everything that had been wrong became right again. He smiled to himself. “I got a blueberry cupcake for you too.”“Thank you,” Taehyung whispered against his ear. “I’m sorry for my behaviour this morning. It was uncalled for. I should’ve talked to you before making decisions on your work arrangement here.”“I’m at fault too,” Jimin pulled back to look at Taehyung. “I shouldn’t have said that I will look for a new job when you’ve put in so much effort to give me a comfortable environment. I only wanted you to know that I’m happy working anywhere here.”“No,” Taehyung asserted. “I’m to blame here. I pushed things your way and didn’t consider how you would feel.”“No, it’s my fault. I should have told you what I prefer earlier.”“No, it’s-” Taehyung stopped. Then they looked at each other for a second before breaking into awkward laughter.“So, are we now fighting to take the blame?” Taehyung said with a teasing smile.Jimin grinned. “Okay, if that’s the case, it’s your fault this time. You win.”“Deal,” Taehyung nodded agreeably. He kissed Jimin’s hair and exhaled a low breath. “I mean it, when I said you are a perfect ten. You are more than enough for me, for us.”It wasn’t as if Taehyung was reciting a noble love poem, but his words filled Jimin’s heart. Everything felt so right in that moment. The alpha’s declaration was so precious that it made the back of Jimin’s eyes sting with tears. He let himself relax in Taehyung’s embrace. He wasn’t going to cry and spoil the moment.“I miss you,” Jimin mumbled against Taehyung’s chest. “I know it sounds silly since it’s barely even a day yet.”Taehyung smoothed Jimin’s back. “The feeling is mutual. You don’t need distance and time to miss someone.”“Shall we eat now?”“Yes, I’m famished.” Unbeknown to Taehyung and Jimin, two pairs of eyes were watching them from a hidden corner, keeping a safe distance from the alpha’s office.“Looks like you don’t need it,” Yoongi said.“Yeah, I was hoping for some bigger drama but well…” Jungkook laughed quietly, eyeing the key on his palm. He’d been toying with the idea of locking Taehyung and Jimin inside the office if they failed to make up by themselves.  “Save that for another day,” Yoongi said as they walked to the lobby.“I swear that one of these days, these two goons are going to drive us crazy,”  Jungkook said with a whistle, tossing the key in the air and grabbing it.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

“Happy birthday, Chimmy!”Hoseok’s greeting and the cheery birthday song blasting out of the speaker roused Jimin from his sleep.“Thanks…” he mumbled blearily and dragged the covers over his head.Hoseok pulled the covers away. “Wake up! Don’t waste your special day on bed.”Jimin felt for his mobile and opened a sleepy eye. 8:00am. “Ugh…It’s still early… Let me sleep more…” he groaned and dropped back onto his pillows, away from the sunlight that glared in as Hoseok swiped the curtains open.Relentless, Hoseok dragged the pillow off Jimin’s head.  “I made you ham and cheese toast. They’re coming in an hour to pick us up. C’mon!”The excitement in his friend’s voice gradually lured Jimin out of his sleepy lull. “Okay, okay,” he mumbled and let Hoseok drag him up.On this day when Jimin turned twenty-four, he was going to spend it with his friends.Originally, he was supposed to stay over at Taehyung’s place last evening, but Hoseok had vehemently objected to it. Like every other year, his friend wanted to spend Jimin’s birthday eve and the actual day itself with him. It was blasphemy to Hoseok to break best friends apart on birthdays. Then Jungkook had roped himself into the picture and voiced his objection to Taehyung as well. From the cheeky grin on the lawyer’s face as he teamed up with Hoseok to veto Taehyung’s plans, Jimin suspected that the young lawyer had done it on purpose to annoy Taehyung.As a compromise, it had been agreed in the end that Jimin would spend his birthday with everyone.Jimin washed up, changed into fresh clothes and enjoyed the toast and coffee made by Hoseok. He FaceTimed his parents in Busan and they adorably squeezed their faces to fit the screen while wishing their son a happy birthday. It made Jimin content, to see his parents healthy and happy. The strawberry farm was apparently doing well, with a sudden boom in business orders from nearby town markets. As Jimin said goodbye to his parents, he secretly made a wish that someday, he would go back to Busan with Taehyung and introduce him to his parents.Half an hour later, two cars arrived downstairs their apartment – one car with Taehyung alone, and the other with Yoongi driving and Jungkook at the backseat.“Happy birthday, my golden boy!” Jungkook clapped Jimin’s back the moment he stepped out of the car. Grabbing Jimin into a bear hug, he lifted him off his feet and spun him around. “Thank you!” Jimin wheezed with laughter as he clung to Jungkook for balance.“Happy birthday,” Yoongi smiled, before moving to Hoseok for a morning kiss. Jimin eyed the lovey-dovey couple with a grin.When it seemed like an ecstatic Jungkook was hugging him for too long, Taehyung intervened.“That’s enough.” The alpha pulled Jimin away from his cousin.“C’mon, let’s set off now. We don’t want to be late,” Hoseok called out.They climbed into their respective cars – Yoongi, Hoseok and Jungkook in one, while Jimin rode with Taehyung in the other.Once they were alone inside the car, the alpha passed Jimin an envelope. “This is for you. The postman came to deliver this at my doorstep this morning.”Jimin flipped the envelop to see its back. The return address was the Kim’s Residence, with Jin’s name below.He looked at Taehyung, confused. “Jin sent me this?”“Seems like it. He probably assumed that we are living together and sent it to my place.”Jimin tore at the edge of the envelope and peeked inside. He pulled out the contents - a classy white birthday card and two tickets to a show. The elegantly handwritten message inside the card read: 
Best wishes for your birthday, dear Jimin.

May you make precious memories with the ones you love and who love you back.

I hope you like this little gift. Bring that special one with you to see it. :)

With love,

Jin
 A soft smile touched Jimin’s lips as he read the message and glanced over at the tickets. They were for the Lion King musical next Saturday. He fondly remembered mentioning to Jin about how difficult it had been to get the tickets for the musical, but he hadn’t expected Jin to act on his casual comment. Jimin made a mental note to send a thank-you text to Jin later.“How did Jin know it’s your birthday? Did the both of you talk a lot that time?” Taehyung inquired. His tone was cool, but Jimin understood him well enough to sense some discomfort.He shifted himself to face the alpha. “We talked about stuff including horoscopes which led to us sharing our birthdays. I didn’t expect Jin to remember it… which reminds me, I should get something for him too.”When Taehyung kept silent, the feeling that something was amiss ballooned. Even though the alpha and his brothers had ironed out most of their issues, they were still far from being on close speaking terms. Jimin had never really asked about the cause of the feud between the siblings. He knew that Taehyung had left the Kim’s Residence because of his father. But Jimin didn’t know what had caused Taehyung to estrange himself from Jin and Namjoon too.  He’d gathered from his own assumptions that it was probably some sibling’s rivalry fuelled by the way their father pitted the brothers against each other.  Jimin had thought it best to give Taehyung the time he needed. He trusted that when the alpha was ready, he would talk to him about it. But right now, he was concerned if Taehyung was feeling out of place because his boyfriend was on friendly terms with one of his brothers.Jimin laid a hand on Taehyung’s. “Does it make you uncomfortable? I mean… that I’m keeping in touch with Jin? If that’s the case, I can-”“Don’t.” Taehyung laid his other hand over Jimin’s. “Don’t change your circle of friends because of me. I’m just surprised that Jin would send you something.”Jimin held up the two tickets and smiled at the alpha. “Let’s see the musical together. Then you can also tell me what Jin likes so I can get something for him.”Taehyung gave Jimin’s chin an affectionate pinch. “Of course. But for now, it’s your special day. I want to spend it with you.” He closed in and sealed their lips together.“Happy birthday, Mochi,” Taehyung whispered, his thumb brushing the sensitive line of Jimin’s jaw.Jimin’s cheeks warmed and God knew why. It wasn’t the first time they had kissed but every time they did it was a whole new experience for him. His insides curled with anticipation as he looked dreamily at Taehyung. Until a sharp honk blasting from the car behind broke them apart. They turned back and saw Jungkook and Hoseok sticking their heads out of the windows.“Time’s up. No blocking the road, Taetae!” Jungkook yelled.“For goodness sake, the both of you’ll have all the time tonight!” Hoseok snapped.Taehyung gave them the finger and Yoongi sounded the honk again.“I guess we better set off.” Jimin scratched his head, keeping his eyes upwards.“I’m regretting my decision to let them come along.” Taehyung scowled childishly as he turned the ignition and pulled out of the driveway. Their destination, to Jimin’s surprise, was Lotte World.  The weather was fine, with the sun shining brightly and carrying enough warmth to cushion the chilly autumn air.Once they passed the ticketing gate, Jungkook turned and walked backwards. “My silly cousin almost booked the entire park and I have to put my foot down with a firm ‘no’.”“Now you can see it’s a bad decision. Look at these people,” Taehyung commented but remained in a good mood as they weaved through the crowd of visitors. People in the form of families, couples and friends surrounded them, engaged in their own chatters and muse.“That’s what a team park is for,” Hoseok chimed in. “Where’s the fun without the noise and laughter?”“It’s not that bad,” Jimin agreed. He swung Taehyung’s hand lightly, noting that despite the crowd, they had arrived early enough to still feel comfortable and have their own space.Hoseok bounced on his feet as his finger jabbed at the pirate ship. “We should do that first!”Yoongi’s spine stiffened.“That’s a ride for kids,” Jungkook teased. “How about the roller coaster for a start?”“I’m in for anything that Jimin wants to ride,” Taehyung said.“Ha! He wants to ride your cock,” Hoseok snorted.“Hobi!” Jimin’s face flooded hot like lava..The crook of smile on Taehyung’s face was too big to hide, although he spared Jimin the embarrassment by not joining in the tease.When it was decided that they would do the roller coaster first, the alpha then became a little too serious as he eyed Jimin with concern. “Are you fine with roller coasters?”Jimin slapped his own chest. “I’m a gamer for exciting rides!”Jimin’s hand was in Taehyung’s as they headed for the queue. They were basking in joy when out of nowhere, Jungkook poked in between them and grabbed their hands in each of his.“Let’s check that out then!” Jungkook winked and skipped along, tugging Taehyung and Jimin with him.The gang took the first three cars, with Jungkook making a quick beeline for the first car in front. Jimin climbed abroad with Taehyung into the second one, while Yoongi and Hoseok took the car behind them.“I’ll let you in on a little secret,” Jimin soft-whispered into Taehyung’s ear when the alpha leaned over to make sure that his straps were secured. “I peed in my pants during my first roller coaster ride when I was ten.”The secret pulled a low chuckle from Taehyung. The alpha brushed his nose lightly against Jimin’s. “Let’s cross our fingers that it doesn’t happen today. Daddy ain’t got no diapers.”The wind slapped their faces, throwing their hair back as the car glided up and dashed down the tracks. Jimin screamed along with Taehyung as they let their hands up in the air, feeling the rush of wind and motion.They ended up in delirious laughter while exiting the ride. As they stepped out, Jimin noticed that Yoongi’s face was as white as sheet and his lips had turned a shade of purple.“Are you really okay?” Hoseok looked worriedly at his boyfriend.“Give me a minute.” Yoongi covered his mouth with the back of his hand and marched robotically towards the gents.“I’ll go with you.” Hoseok had meant to follow, but Yoongi waved him off with a calm hand. “He shouldn’t have taken the ride if he’s not up to it.” Hoseok grumbled as he waited outside the gents with Jimin. Taehyung and Jungkook had gone to join the line before the cart to get them drinks. Even though Hoseok’s arms were crossed, the concern that creased his forehead was a product of worry than that of irritation.Jimin squeezed his friend’s arm. “Yoongi doesn’t want to disappoint you, seeing how much fun you’re having. I’m sure he’ll be fine, don’t worry.”And true to his prediction, Yoongi emerged from the gents, the healthy colour restored back on his face as though nothing had happened.The secretary redeemed himself in a shooting game later at one of the stalls. It was the first time Jimin had witnessed Yoongi’s competitive side as he took on Taehyung and Jungkook in the three-shooter game.All three men had fire in their eyes as they picked up their rifles and aimed at the balloons ahead. Their game attracted a crowd, mostly females, who were swooned by their skills and charisma. It was thrilling, seeing the men pit themselves against one another. No one was giving in or cutting loose corners.Right from the start, Yoongi took the lead, throwing Taehyung and Jungkook off. Jimin and Hoseok cheered from the sides. Hoseok clapped and shouted praises to Yoongi like a proud girlfriend cheering for his man in a basketball match. Since his best friend was obsessively rooting for Yoongi, Jimin had to take care of the other two.“Go on Taehyung, you can do it!” he cheered on for his boyfriend and remembered to do the same for Jungkook. “Jungkook, fighting! Fighting!”In the end, Yoongi effortlessly skated to the top charts with his precise shots, while Taehyung and Jungkook tied at the second place.“Some game, isn’t it?” Jungkook brushed back his hair, which had become a dark flop of mess from all the shooting.“Ooh I want to touch his hair…” The teenage girl beside Jimin giggled.“We finally have a worthy rival.” Taehyung accepted his defeat graciously as he put his rifle down. “Well done, Yoongi.”The female staff manning the store watched on, smitten by the charms of the three men.“You guys are truly pros. I’m so impressed,” she cooed with a coquettish smile, her hands curled under her chin. “I’ve seen so many guys play and none of them could compare to your skills. How did you do that? Can you show me?”“You need a lot of practice,” Jungkook flashed his pretty boy smile, flexing his arms.Hoseok hissed under his breath to Jimin. “That bitch’s eyelashes are fake, and she’s literally undressing our men with her eyes.”Jimin titled his head to the side. “Huh?”“These are the kind of people we need to be wary of. Get a leash on your man,” Hoseok warned. Just as the woman was about to present a teddy bear to Yoongi, Hoseok took a bold step forward and planted himself between them.The woman’s eyes sharpened with a nasty glare. But Hoseok kept his chin up. His smile didn’t reach his eyes and the venom in his voice was all out. “Is this my amazing boyfriend’s prize for winning?”The woman stiffened like she suddenly remembered her place. “Ye-yes.”“Thanks then.” Hoseok whipped the bear from her before Yoongi could reach out. “Let’s go, honey. I’m hungry.” He whisked Yoongi away, leaving the woman dumbfounded and pissed off.“We will do another round later,” Taehyung told Jimin. His arm rounded Jimin’s waist and led him away too. If the alpha knew the woman was flirting, he obviously couldn’t be bothered. Only Jungkook mouthed a courteous “thank you” before jogging off to join the rest.“I’ll get you a bear bigger than that,” Taehyung said to Jimin.Jimin looped his arms around the alpha and leaned against his side. “I prefer to hug you than a bear.”“Oh Jimin, please hug me too.” Jungkook fell into Jimin’s other side and flung his arms around him.“Get off.” Taehyung aimed a kick at his cousin.They tussled their way to the dining area for lunch, with Jimin squashed in between them. It was night when Taehyung drove back to his place with Jimin. They were finally alone together after a long day.  As Jimin watched the passing night scenery, he looked back on the day’s event and found himself smiling.For dinner, they had settled for army stew buffet at a restaurant and at the end, Taehyung and the rest had surprised him with a large strawberry birthday cake. Every staff and diners had cheered and sang him the birthday song, an act which Jimin later found out had been orchestrated by the alpha. The grand gesture had been both sweetly embarrassing and heart-warming.Stretching his arms in his seat, exhaustion from a full day of fun, play and food sank in. He turned his head and smile at Taehyung. “Thank you for spending the day with me and my friends. I know you wanted today to be just the two of us and were disappointed when they insisted on coming.”The alpha returned his smile. His  left hand left the steering wheel to take hold of Jimin’s right hand. “I no longer feel that way. Seeing how happy you are makes it all worthwhile. Jimin, I want you to keep smiling and laughing the way you did today.”Jimin felt the warmth of the alpha’s hand. He curled his fingers to interlace with his. “I really enjoyed today. It’s the best and most memorable present.”A corner of Taehyung’s mouth lifted into a secretive smile. “I’ve yet to give you mine. You will see it soon.”     “Are we there yet?” Jimin wondered as he started up the stairs with Taehyung. He was enfolded in darkness by a blindfold, the only source guiding him being Taehyung’s hand.“Just a little while more,” the alpha told him. Jimin’s feet landed at the foot of the stairs. Taehyung’s palms on his shoulders gently nudged him down the hallway.They stopped and he heard the click of a door. Then Taehyung turned him towards the right and guided him forward a few steps. The blindfold was removed from Jimin and he opened his eyes, adjusted to the brightness of the room.“Happy birthday,” Taehyung said.Standing at the threshold, Jimin’s mouth fell agape as his eyes took in the interior. They were in the alpha’s mansion but Jimin couldn’t remember stepping into this room before. He took in the magnificence of the art studio before him, feeling as though he had walked into a magazine cover. The light colour schemes and bursts of lavender and white gave the room a tranquil, nature feel. A large easel accompanied by a drawing stool stood before the full-length windows, and colourful art supplies and books lined the built-in shelves. A designer daybed and TV set formed a lounge area that took up the other side of the room. There was even a partitioned sleeping area with a king size bed. The room was much bigger than any rooms in Taehyung’s house. Jimin spotted another door that looked exactly like the one they had entered through, and his mind registered that a wall had been knocked off to combine two rooms into one. The scent of polished interior and new furniture still lingered in the air.“Are you into arts now?” Curiosity pinged his voice even as he tried to contain his excitement. “This room is gorgeous. It’s every artist’s dream.”Taehyung gave him an affectionate gaze. “Happy birthday,” he repeated. “This is my gift to you. It’s your sanctuary when you need some quiet.”The enormity of the alpha’s gift overwhelmed Jimin. Words failed him. It dawned upon him that whatever rules he had set earlier on no giving of multiple presents, the alpha would find some way to get around it.Taehyung brought Jimin’s hand to his lips. “For all your birthdays I missed, and today.”Jimin opened his mouth with a natural inclination to reject the gift, but Taehyung shushed the boy’s lips with his finger.“Hear me out first” the alpha said. “I know that you didn’t want a personal office room because of what others would think. But it’s a different thing with this. You don’t have to worry about other people, since no one is going to know about this place. I really want to give you a space of you own. This is your sanctuary, Mochi.”“It’s a very expensive sanctuary.”Taehyung shrugged, his eyes smiling. “I didn’t spend a lot to do up this place. The ID team who did this is new to the industry, promising starters who were in desperate need of the first breakthrough. By hiring them, it boosted their profiles. In a way, they have you to thank for.”Jimin came to terms that the alpha was making it clear to him that if he didn’t want the office room, he would give him this personal space in this house. No matter what, Taehyung would find a way to give him something.Jimin moved towards the easel and ran his fingers against its smooth, intricate edges.“You said this is my sanctuary,” he said over his shoulder.“Yes.” Taehyung came up behind Jimin and slipped his arms around him.  “As much as I hate to admit, it’s possible that we might get into fights again because I’m a jerk. You can stay here if you need a place to cool down, or if you want to ignore me for a while. I won’t come in unless you let me.”Jimin leaned back in Taehyung’s shoulders. “You always think steps ahead. I doubt I’ll ever catch up with you.”“I’ll slow down once in a while so you can catch up.” Jimin smiled. “That’s a nice idea.”“Please say that you will accept this gift.” Taehyung whispered, his nose brushing featherlight against the crook of Jimin’s neck.Jimin turned around to face him. He circled his arms around the alpha’s neck. “I really like this present. Thank you.”The grin on Taehyung’s face became that of arrogant satisfaction. He lowered and touched his lips to Jimin’s.It was all Jimin needed to melt. There was no second thought, but only eager lust as his fingers dived into Taehyung’s hair. He tipped his toes higher and crushed his lips harder against the alpha’s.Perhaps surprised by Jimin’s initiative, Taehyung paused a beat but quickly recovered as he took Jimin’s mouth with primal hunger. He sucked at Jimin’s lower lip and a lewd sound escaped Jimin’s throat. Mouths parted and tongues met as they locked themselves in each other arms, relishing the luscious feel of skin and heat.Driven by instincts, Taehyung backed Jimin against the wall, pinned him there with his body as his hands roamed over the boy’s arms.Jimin’s insides burnt with passion, firing up his senses that this was leading to something more. His hands slip down Taehyung’s neck and caressed his broad shoulders. Without tearing his mouth away from the Taehyung’s, Jimin shifted to let his palms journey down the alpha’s chest and abdomen, feeling his hard body through the fabric of his shirt. He let one hand undo a button and slip in to touch the alpha’s bare skin.Touching Taehyung’s sculpted abs swollen the aching need below Jimin. He began to undo the next button.And heard a sharp intake of the alpha’s breath.“Jimin-” The roughness in Taehyung’s voice cut through his reverie and slapped him back to reality. The next thing Jimin knew, they were no longer kissing and Taehyung was no longer touching him in that sensual way. The alpha had closed his hand – tender but firm - over Jimin’s, halting his advance on his shirt.Jimin swallowed down his confusion, deliberating if he’d read the alpha wrongly. The hasty pause made he feel as though he’d dropped something precious. “What’s wrong?” Jimin choked out, trying to keep his voice light. He saw in the alpha the same uncertain expression he’d seen earlier when they were talking about Jin in his car. And just the same, that uncertainty vanished in a heartbeat, making Jimin wonder if he was imagining things.Taehyung caressed Jimin’s hair, his dark eyes studying him. The tired curve of his lips was the only sign that assured Jimin.“It’s late,” Taehyung said. “I have a morning meeting tomorrow. We should change and turn in early.”“Okay.” Jimin nodded. He hoped that his disappointment as he left the room with Taehyung wasn’t obvious.Jimin did as Taehyung had said – turn in early.They shared Taehyung’s bed as usual whenever Jimin stayed over. Jimin had his back against Taehyung’s chest. The alpha’s arms felt warm and comforting around his waist. He could feel Taehyung’s soft breath against his neck as the alpha drifted off in his sleep, and the calming rise and fall of his chest against his back.For one thing, it was rare for Taehyung to sleep first. The first and last time it had happened, it’d been that broken night at Jeju after Jin’s party, when the alpha had too much to drink and spilled his dark and troubled past to Jimin.As Jimin lay still in bed, he couldn’t shake off the earlier rejection that had left him with a sinking feeling. It brought to surface a fact, making it more noticeable now, that they hadn’t had sex since getting back together.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

A few evenings later, Jimin and Hoseok were making doughnuts in the kitchen.As Jimin whisked the batter, he kept thinking back to the night of his birthday, which had ended with him feeling empty and confused.Was Taehyung really tired that night? Jimin had been anticipating that they would be doing something more but the alpha had instead suggested they turn in early.A different, more disturbing thought gripped Jimin.Did Taehyung not want to touch him anymore after what happened with Chen? Did the alpha think that he was too weak? What was wrong?“Hey, you’re supposed to stop when it’s foamy, not watery!” Hoseok’s exclamation burst Jimin’s bubble of thoughts.“Ah!” Gasping, Jimin stared in dismay at the batter which had become diluted liquid. “I’m sorry, Hobi. I will make another one.”“You alright? You look distracted.” Hoseok stopped punching the dough as he eyed Jimin with suspicion. “Did Kim Taehyung bully you again?”“No. Things are good between us.” Jimin put in before his friend’s maternal instincts to protect could kick in.“Lie better. Only Kim Taehyung can put that troubled look on your face. What happened?”Jimin hesitated how much to reveal. “It’s just that… well… we sort of haven’t had that for some time.” “What?” Hoseok almost knocked over the packet of flour on the counter. “You mean the both of you have not fucked? Since when?”Jimin winced. “Since we’ve gotten back together.”“Shit. Then what do you do when you stay over at his place?”“We cook, watch TV and play video games.” As if to defend himself and Taehyung, he added, “We still share the same bed, and we hug and kiss.”“That’s all?” Hoseok looked disappointed. “I didn’t let my bestie stay over at his boyfriend’s place just for PG-13 acts.”Already, Jimin was starting to regret bringing this up to Hoseok.  It looked like his friend wasn’t going to let the matter rest until he’d dug up every piece of information.“Woah…” Hoseok continued as he rolled the dough into doughnut shapes. “Impressive of Kim Taehyung to hold himself back. I’m surprised he hasn’t made a move on you.”“Or maybe he’s really tired. Work’s been keeping him busy,” Jimin said.“He’s controlling the beast inside him. You need to lure it out, entice him with your charms. Do whatever it takes. Go for it!”“I… don’t know. Or maybe he just wasn’t in the mood. I could be overthinking things.”“C’mon,” Hoseok elbowed Jimin on his shoulder. “Stop finding excuses. You need to be bold and show him what you want.”Now Jimin was intrigued. Making a move on Taehyung. But how? He wasn’t confident if he could pull it off, since it was always Taehyung leading him.“I don’t wish to make it as though I’m pushing him when he doesn’t want to do it.”“Ohh puhlessss…” Hoseok rolled his eyes dramatically. “Mark my words, Chimmy. Taehyung’s desperate to get into your pants. Unless his dick has shrank, he must be jerking off by himself. Alphas are passionate creatures. Their dicks have lives of their own.”“Hobi!”At the sound of the oven beeping, Hoseok went to check on the earlier batch of doughnuts. “You know, Chimmy. The twenty-first century has no room for those who sit and wait out. If you want something, go for it.”Hoseok’s idea sounded sly, and too bold. Still, he had a point.Jimin asked, “How do I do it?”A wicked look gleamed Hoseok’s eyes as he resumed working on the dough. “What are Kim Taehyung’s kinks?”“What do you mean?”“Gosh, are you my friend? Does he have any fetishes?”“I...”Hoseok prompted on as he slapped at the dough hard, “Bondage, whips, spanking – okay, these are too hard for you. Hmm… what about hot teacher, school boy, plumber man, Daddy’s boy...Ah, Yoongi’s knees go weak when I call him ‘Daddy’.”Jimin stumbled for words. “Hmm... I think Taehyung likes it when I make those meowing sounds, not that I was doing it on purpose.” He remembered when they used to have sex, Taehyung would go rock hard again whenever Jimin purred like a kitty because of all the orgasms the alpha was giving him.  “That’s it! Bestiality then!” Hoseok slapped his hands together and a puff of flour dusted the air. “I’ve got an idea.”“What idea?”“There’s this kitty concept I did with Yoongi that got his balls fired up…” *** The next evening arrived when Jimin was staying over at Taehyung’s place.While Taehyung was making a phone call in his study, Jimin slipped inside the alpha’s room and did the setup.He was going to seduce Taehyung tonight. Now or never.He quickly changed into his leopard-print corset and black yoga pants. The tight-fitting corset made it hard for Jimin to breathe and think properly, and he regretted eating too much for dinner earlier, but the beef wellington at the restaurant had been so good it was difficult to resist.Checking himself out in the mirror, Jimin slipped the hairband with gold kitty ears on his head. He touched the fluffy material, suddenly becoming more conscious of his image. He straightened his back to ease his breathing but his insides were a mess of twisted nerves.To calm himself down, he paced the room and rehearsed the lines and steps in his mind again and again.At the sound of footsteps outside, Jimin leapt into the bathroom and hid behind the door, leaving a small gap.He saw Taehyung entered and changed into his sleeping robe. Jimin watched, and took the que. Stepping out of the bathroom, he shut the door and leaned against it with a drawn-up knee.“Good evening, Daddy,” he purred.A shot of reaction jerked Taehyung’s shoulders and he turned around.The look on Taehyung’s face as he eyed him up and down was priceless. The alpha looked like a truck had hit him. If Jimin wasn’t on a quest, he would have whipped out his phone to capture the moment. But he was on a quest and so he marched forward.Hands on hips, Jimin sashayed with feline grace towards Taehyung in a seductive dance.Taehyung swallowed, the rising and dipping of his Adam’s apple visible. “What’s wrong with you?”“Do you like the smell of this room?” Jimin let out a quiet coo. “It’s rose and clary sage… very expensive you know.”“It’s a nice and exquisite smell.”Jimin ran a lazy finger down the alpha’s throat. “Or does Daddy prefer to smell me?”Air seemed to oozed out of Taehyung.Jimin slowly backed Taehyung towards the bed and settled his back against the frame. He crawled towards Taehyung like a cat and climbed on top of the alpha’s hips.Stradling Taehyung, Jimin grounded his hips in erotic moves against his groin, felt his erection hardening below.A growl rumbled out of the Taehyung’s throat as his muscles beneath Jimin tensed. “Jimin, if you’re doing this to-”“Shhhh,” Jimin shushed Taehyung with a finger on his lips. “Do you want some doughnuts? I made them for you.” He gestured with a flirtatious wave to the basket of doughnuts on the bedside.At the befuddled expression on Taehyung’s face, Jimin took a further initiative. He broke a piece of strawberry doughnut and with his thumb pushed it into the alpha’s mouth.Taehyung chewed on the pastry as he watched Jimin. Jimin understood this as the alpha’s observing look. He was waiting, watching to see what Jimin had up his sleeve.Going with the sweet pacing he’d set, Jimin took a lazy bite of his doughnut.  He chewed it slowly, letting Taehyung watch the way his tongue moved over his lips. Putting the half-eaten doughnut back, Jimin clamped his hands on the alpha’s shoulders and felt them stiffened.Taehyung opened his mouth to speak and this time, Jimin shushed him with a kiss on his lips. His innocent kiss turned intense as he parted his lips, savouring the aftertaste of sweet pastry and mouthwash mint from Taehyung’s breath. His hands glided down to explore the Taehyung’s body, spread outwards on the alpha’s chest to part his robe.Without breaking their mouths apart, Jimin shifted himself closer until there was no space between their bodies. Inhaling Taehyung’s scent and noting the way his breath caught, Jimin smiled.His hands squeezed the alpha’s waist as his mouth explored, kissing the alpha’s chest and feeling his sculpted chest with his lips.  Jimin’s tongue found Taehyung’s nipple and he teased it with a rolling lick, felt the alpha shudder below him.“Jimin-”Taehyung’s swollen groin prodding underneath Jimin stimulated his nerves further. His lips roamed Taehyung’s chest in kneading moves and continued its quest down to his delicious abs.He slipped his hand inside Taehyung’s Gucci boxers.“Stop.”The cold, hard voice froze Jimin’s senses. He felt as if a sudden bucket of ice being was poured over his head.Jolting out of his world, Jimin pulled back. His eyes remained glued on Taehyung’s abs, unable to look up.The rejection this time crippled Jimin. His confidence slipped.God, what was he thinking? That he could seduce Taehyung? Hoseok had sworn by his life that this technique would work, but his friend hadn’t prepared him for an escape plan if it didn’t. How should he react? What should he do now?An urge to cry hit Jimin. “Sorry-” He scrambled off Taehyung and tumbled out of the bed. He tugged the kitty hairband off his hair, feeling stupid. His words came out fast and hurt. “I- I shouldn’t be disturbing you like that. I-I’ll just sleep in my room tonight- Sorry.”“I don’t mean that-”“I’m sorry,” he cut off Taehyung’s words. He scurried for his robe and threw it around his body.“Jimin.” He was scampering for the door when Taehyung grabbed his arm and shifted in front of him. “Don’t leave.”Jimin couldn’t meet Taehyung’s eyes, wouldn’t want to see what they would convey. “Then what do you want me to do?” he gasped, almost a sob. “It’s clear, isn’t it? That you don’t what me in that way.”“That’s not true,” Taehyung bit out.His arms came around Jimin but he pushed him away. “Don’t hug me when you don’t want me.”It was that heavy, dejected sigh from Taehyung that paused Jimin’s frantic thoughts and had him looking up. Instead of indifference, he found agony and frustration in the alpha’s eyes.“You don’t have to accommodate me,” Taehyung said.“I’m not accommodating you. I don’t understand this,” Jimin replied feebly. “What’s wrong? Tell me.”With heavy shoulders, Taehyung moved to the bed and sat on the edge, with his back towards Jimin.“I don’t want to hurt you again,” the alpha began with broken quietness. “After what I did to you and for what happened, I want to make things right this time.”“We are working on making things better,” Jimin pointed out softly. “Since getting back together, you’ve been taking care of me and even when we have differences, we talk and work them out.”The alpha breathed out, “I don’t want to lose you again. Every now and then, I had this thought that you will just disappear one day and I could never find you again. I don’t want that to happen, Jimin. You are too precious to me to risk losing.”The words flayed Jimin’s heart with guilt, then pain.In that instance, it became clear to Jimin, that Taehyung’s reluctance for intimacy stemmed from his insecurities. Since they’d become a real couple, Taehyung had been very cautious with him. Every thought, every word and every step from the alpha were treaded with care, as if he were afraid of breaking him.Jimin’s chest constricted. He had failed to sense the insecurities that Taehyung was struggling with. Even if the alpha hid them from him, as his boyfriend, shouldn’t he be alert enough to sense them?Jimin scooted on the bed towards Taehyung. He wrapped his arms around Taehyung from behind and rested his chin on the alpha’s shoulder.“I’m not going anywhere,” he assured. “… and you don’t have to treat me so delicately. I’m not made of glass. I’m stronger than you think. I kissed you and did these things not because I wanted to please you – okay, maybe a bit – but also because I want to do it.”Taehyung’s shoulders rose and fell with a deep inhale. Jimin held onto him, comforting him with his presence.A few moments passed and Jimin’s soft voice broke the silence. “We won’t do it if you don’t want to. I’ll wait until you are ready-”He didn’t get to finish as Taehyung flipped their bodies against the sheets, and came on top of him.Bracing his arms on either side of Jimin, Taehyung’s dark eyes searched his. “Are you really sure you want this?”Jimin was lost in the intensity of it, the feral yearning and vulnerability of it all in the Taehyung’s gaze. His arms circled the alpha’s neck and he lifted his chin.And pressed their lips together.“This is my answer.” He let out a quiet breath.And Taehyung reciprocated with his own by taking Jimin’s mouth with his in a slow, sensual tasting.When Taehyung broke away to look at Jimin, his eyes were glazed. Stroking Jimin’s hair, he murmured, this time with a cocky, knowing grin. “Did Hoseok teach you this?”Jimin pressed his lips together. “I won’t do it again if you don’t like it.”“It’s sexy as hell, Mochi.” To prove his point, Taehyung thrusted his lower hips against Jimin to let him feel the full impact of his hardness. “Never ever show this side of you to other men.”Jimin pouted. “It’s my first time doing this. I’m nervous. I thought you didn’t like it.”“It killed me.” Taehyung’s mouth trailed down the crook of Jimin’s neck. “Show me what else you’ve learnt.”In response, Jimin used all of his strength and pushed, throwing a surprised Taehyung back. He straddled the alpha once again.Then he ventured down below and pulled down Taehyung’s boxers to let his erection spring free.Mischief and anticipation danced in Taehyung’s eyes. “Looks like a big show.”Jimin picked up the challenge and smiled seductively. He reached out for the pastry basket and retrieved a chocolate doughnut.Taehyung cocked a brow, leading him on.Holding the doughnut, Jimin brought it to his mouth and pouted his lips into the doughnut hole. The sensually cute gesture garnered low chuckle from Taehyung.Jimin took the doughnut away from his lips and brought its hole over Taehyung’s erected cock and pushed it downwards, looping it like a cock ring. The action fired a missile directly to the alpha’s loins and smeared his cock with sugary crumbs.A rough edge caught Taehyung’s voice as his fingers gripped the sheets. “Did you learn this too?”Kneeling before him, Jimin tipped his head to the side and looked at the alpha innocently. “I didn’t, but it just seems like a natural move.”At Taehyung’s penetrating gaze, Jimin flustered and looked away. “Sorry, I should’ve asked first.”He was about to remove the doughnut when Taehyung bent forward and caught his wrist. “Why don’t you finish what you’ve started. You can ask me to show you how.”Jimin bit his lips, considered for a beat. “Show me, please.”With a winning smirk, Taehyung snaked his hand to the back of Jimin’s head and wrapped his fingers in his hair. He gave a soft push, guiding Jimin down to his hard, standing cock. Picking up the cue, Jimin parted his lips and began to take in Taehyung’s length.It was Jimin’s first time taking Taehyung’s cock in his mouth. The alpha was massive and Jimin had to stretch his lips to accommodate him. He closed his eyes and surrendered, letting himself feel nothing but the silken length of Taehyung’s cock filling his mouth. As the alpha’s crown hit the base of his throat, Jimin muffled a swallow.The pressure of Taehyung’s hand on Jimin’s head maintained a steady tempo, moving in tandem with Jimin’s mouth.Jimin’s mouth stroked up and down Taehyung’s length. The alpha’s masculine scent and the chocolatey aroma of doughnut intoxicated him with a taste of ecstasy.A deep, slow exhalation from Taehyung made Jimin steal a peek at the alpha. He saw that Taehyung had his eyes closed and his expression was that of bliss, like he was drowning in euphoria. The muscles beneath Taehyung’s hips tensed and the pressure of his fingers tangled in Jimin’s hair increased. The signs of the alpha’s approaching orgasm encouraged Jimin. He pulled backed on his own accord and then went down on Taehyung again, his mouth picking up speed.As Jimin worked Taehyung’s cock in his mouth, his thumbs massaged the Alpha’s balls. With each stroke, the doughnut circling the base of the alpha’s cock disintegrated, smearing morsels of bread and chocolate all over Taehyung.Taehyung’s body shook and his first orgasm of cum shot into Jimin’s mouth and down his throat. The alpha let out a satisfying grunt as his hips shuddered beneath Jimin’s working mouth.Jimin drank down every bit of his man gratefully, and could hear himself swallowing the alpha’s juice as it glided down his throat.He pulled Taehyung’s cock out of his mouth and some of the alpha’s cum dripped down to his cheeks and neck. Jimin licked his fingers, tasting the alpha’s seed.Pouncing forward, Taehyung clasped Jimin’s face with his hands and licked his cheeks. Then he kissed Jimin’s cum-smeared lips hungrily, plunging his tongue into the boy’s mouth to taste the recesses of his cum. “You taste good,” Jimin moaned into Taehyung’s mouth. “Daddy tastes so good.”Taehyung growled, “Never knew my baby Mochi could get so naughty.”Jimin pulled back and purred at him. “No boy could remain pure the longer he stays with you.”That clearly undid Taehyung, drove him wilder. His ravenous hands moved to strip off Jimin’s corset, tore it opened and got him naked.Lying on his back now, Jimin’s gaze never left Taehyung as the alpha crawled in between his legs, like a beast ready to feast on its prey. The alpha cuffed Jimin’s ankles in his hands and pushed his knees up. Jimin’s eyes roamed to Taehyung’s cock, hard as rock as ever. He could tell that the alpha was already gunning for the second orgasm, and the thought made his toes curled with wild anticipation.Keeping their gazes locked on each other, Taehyung hovered above Jimin and eased himself into Jimin’s hole that was ready and wet.Drawing in a ragged breath, Jimin felt his hole expand as Taehyung pushed, filling every sensitive inch of him inside.He felt some pain at first but moaned with pleasure later. “You’re really big and thick.”Taehyung’s eyes glowed. “And the smallness of your hole stretches so well to fit me.”Jimin liked it when Taehyung went slow but this time, his body craved for speed and fervour. After weeks of deprivation, his biology was in war, desperate to take in as much of the alpha as he could.He arched his hips higher and whined. “Faster.” To push Taehyung’s buttons, he whimpered teasingly, “Daddy can do better, right?”The challenge fired a carnal, fiery look in Taehyung’s eyes. The alpha’s lips winged up into a devil’ smile. “Be careful what you wish for.”Taehyung gave Jimin what he wanted. He pulled Jimin’s legs wider and swung them over his shoulders, bringing his manhood deeper inside the boy.“Feel me all the way in,” the alpha growled.  This time, he thrusted deeper and faster with unrestrained haste, jerking whimpers and mewls out of Jimin. The boy bunched his fingers on the sheets as his body twisted and spasmed with raw and overloaded pleasure. He let Taehyung take him, wrapped and seized him as they threw themselves over the edge.Jimin arched with a cry as luscious delight swept through him. He cried out Taehyung’s name as the alpha erupted inside him, flooding him with his heated fluid. On and on their bodies rocked back and forth, exploding with unrestrained abandonment.When they eventually came back down, Jimin toppled on top of Taehyung, their hearts beating furiously against each other.  Gasping for air, their bodies collided in tangled limbs, naked and sweaty.Taehyung draped his arm over Jimin’s back and brushed tender kisses on his hair, clammy from sex.Whispering sweet words, he soothed Jimin’s trembling body, slow and coaxing.“My Mochi baby has grown up so quick and well. I’m so proud of you,” the alpha murmured into Jimin’s ears.Sprawled on Taehyung’s chest, Jimin attempted a tired smile without opening his eyes. He was boneless and spent, had been too high up there that when he came down, an indescribable sense of happiness and fatigue washed over him. His breath took in the alpha’s scent, felt it mingling with his own.His heart squeezed with emotions he couldn’t describe. It was fuller than anything he’d ever felt before, as if it could spread out on Taehyung’s chest, offer it to the alpha for his claiming.“I love you, Kim Taehyung...” Jimin murmured in a weary daze. He floated off into dreamland, uncertain if the Alpha said anything back.+++End

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Never had Jimin slept so profoundly well in a long time.The lovemaking had sunken him into black-out bliss and coddled him to a deep, restful sleep. He felt like his soul had drifted out of his body to a magical place before wandering back.So when he felt a warm, arousing sensation between his legs, he thought he was still in his dreams.As he blinked his eyes open and adjusted to the morning world, the arousal below became more intense. A soft moan floated out of his lips and he eased himself up on his elbows. His heart did a bunny hop at the sight of a very naked and male Taehyung buried between his arched-up legs.The alpha was pampering him with a blowjob.Jimin watched himself go in and out of Taehyung’s mouth. As the alpha did his magic, Jimin could feel his hot breath fanning the delicate part of his skin below.Taehyung raised a smirk at him.“Pervert,” Jimin muttered.His arousal spiked when Taehyung swiftly increased his speed, ripping another pleasurable sigh out of him. Jimin tossed himself back to the pillows, his hips arching in tandem with the escalating stimulus. Soon, he was breathless and moaning and flooding to the edge with an orgasm.God, Taehyung really knew what he was doing.“Gosh,” Jimin panted when they were back to themselves again. “This is more than fireworks.”Spooning Jimin’s body from behind, Taehyung dropped lazy kisses on his shoulder. “What’s for breakfast?”“I don’t think I can stand now.” Jimin turned his head so that their mouths met.They laughed in their kisses and dissolved into new lovemaking.Instead of treating Jimin to mind-blowing fireworks and shooting stars, Taehyung pampered him with vanilla and roses this time round. Their morning lovemaking was soft and tender, with the alpha gently taking Jimin apart and then putting him back together. He was soft and delicate on Jimin as though he were worshipping Jimin’s body with all of his love.The thing about sex with Taehyung was that, it was always unpredictable and made Jimin look forward to it.As Jimin didn’t - also couldn’t but in a good way - want to get out of bed, Taehyung went down to the kitchen to make breakfast. The alpha’s naked ass was exposed in all of its glory as he returned to the bed with a tray of French toast, tea and grapes. The sight made Jimin thought of a Greek god serving his queen with breakfast on bed.They idled away the rest of the morning in their love nest, popping grapes into each other’s mouths with their own and finishing the rest of the doughnuts from last night. The doughnuts had gone stale and dry, but when you were in love every food tasted heavenly, more so when it came from your lover’s mouth. After breakfast, they rounded the morning with another unhurried session of lovemaking. When it ended, they snuggled in each other’s arms and balanced their bodies precariously on the very edge of the huge bed to avoid the pool of wet spot in the center.“Can you still stand?” It was Jimin who asked.Taehyung grinned down at him. “Nothing tires me. I have legs of steel.”Jimin narrowed his eyes with a naughty gleam. “Who says I’m talking about your legs?” He gave his hips a hard thrust against the alpha’s groin. “I’m referring to this.”He yelped in surprise when Taehyung rocked up and grabbed his waist. The room turned upside down as the alpha flipped his body over his shoulders and marched for the bathroom.“Put me down!” Laughing while being hung upside down over Taehyung’s shoulder, Jimin poked pinches at the alpha’s butt cheeks.Taehyung swatted Jimin playfully across his ass. “It’s shower time, Mochi. You can inspect my manhood capabilities while we are at it.”Jimin squealed all the way to the bathroom. ***** The weeks that followed were the happiest times of Taeyang’s life.His relationship with Jimin had gotten stronger, their chemistry improved both in communication and in bed. They talked about everything under the sun and laughed together. They showered together and made love to each other like nobody’s business.Sometimes they argued, but it was mostly over Taehyung’s unchanging – albeit gradually improving - habit of splurging Jimin with gifts.Being on the receiving end of Taehyung’s generosity, especially expensive gifts, made Jimin squirmed. Secretly, Taehyung loved the way Jimin would whine and then construct a reasonable excuse to reject his gifts. It was a fucking turn-on for Taehyung, a boost to his silly ego that had him chuckling to himself in secret. Sometimes, he bought gifts for Jimin purely just to see his reaction.Being in love made a person silly.But being in love also made a person forgiving. Taehyung thought of Jin and Namjoon a lot these days, and resolved to close the chapters of his earlier life that had been shadowing him for the past years. He needed that closure, that opportunity to wrap up his past nicely so that he could continue his future.His future with Jimin. The man that now held the key to his heart.The chance arrived one morning in the form of a wedding invitation.The time was finally here.Jin and Namjoon’s wedding would be held in LA in a month’s time in December, which meant that Taehyung would have to fly to the States to attend it.An idea formed in his mind, crystallised into a plan.“You’re going, right?” Jungkook asked. He was lounging on the coach opposite Taehyung in the office one afternoon. The alpha had called him in to discuss the matter.Taehyung said, “There’s no reason not to. I’m working out the travel dates and details.”Jungkook took a drag of his carbonated drink. “Take a longer break. It’d do you good.”A knock on the door interrupted their conversation. Jimin’s smiling face appeared. “Are you looking for me?”Taehyung motioned the boy over with a wave of his hand. “You don’t have to knock. Just come in next time.”Jimin closed the door behind him. “Hello, Jungkook.”“Hi,” His cousin grinned at Jimin as he walked over to join them.Before Jimin could take the empty space beside him, Taehyung pulled him and had him toppling on his lap.“Hey…” A small blush rose to Jimin’s cheeks as he tried to wriggle out of Taehyung’s lap. But the alpha sealed him with a kiss on the lips. “Jungkook’s not an outsider.”His cousin snorted, swirling his drink.Seated sideways in Taehyung’s lap, Jimin turned his face to the alpha. “Did you call me in for something?”Taehyung reached for the wedding invitation on the table and handed the card to him. “Jin and Namjoon invited us to his wedding.”“Us?” Jimin’s eyes widened.“I have one myself too.” Jungkook waved his own card.Jimin read the contents in the card. It was addressed to Taehyung and himself as though they were a couple. Below their names were details of the wedding and Namjoon’s and Jin’s names inscribed in silver.“Let’s go together,” Taehyung proposed. Jimin’s eyes were bright with interest at first. But as he stared longer at the card, his shoulders began to slump slightly. “It’ll be held in LA…”Taehyung pointed out, “There’s this thing called airplanes.”At the troubled look growing on Jimin’s face, the alpha knew what was nagging the boy’s mind. Travel expenses. Cost.He covered Jimin’s hand with his. “I’m thinking of a longer holiday abroad. We’ll fly to LA for the wedding and stay in the city for a week. Then we’ll fly domestic to Florida and spent two weeks there. We’ll tour the amusement parks, spend Christmas and New Year there before flying back.”From the shine that gleamed Jimin’s eyes, he was undoubtedly tempted to go.After a while of silence, Jimin said to Taehyung, “I want to attend Jin and Namjoon’s wedding. How about this? We will attend the wedding and stay in LA for a week, and come back after that. We can go to Florida next time.”“Only Jungkook will come back from LA after the wedding,” Taehyung said and saw his cousin sending him a wink to acknowledge. “The both of us will fly straight to Florida after LA. It’ll be winter, but you’ll love the amusement parks and nature there.” To tempt Jimin further into his plans, the alpha added, “There are four Disney parks in Orlando, Universal Studios and other theme parks. You’ll have a lot of fun, and they’ve got beautiful Christmas lights.”Still reluctant, Jimin turned to Jungkook for support, but his cousin plastered a cheeky smile on his face. “I’m on Taetae’s side this time.”Taehyung traced Jimin’s cheekbone with his thumb. “Before you say no to me again, I spoke to Hoseok this morning. He’s agreed to lock you out if you’re not coming with me.”“That’s not fair…” Jimin groaned like a pup being cornered. “You’re all ganging up against me.”“I really want us to go on a trip together. You need a break too,” Taehyung said.“C’mon, Chimmy…” Jungkook said, watching the couple with delight as though he were enjoying a k-drama. “Give Taetae a break. He’s been working so hard lately. The both of you could do with a holiday. Take it as a pre-honeymoon practice.”Jimin was clearly uncomfortable as his mind wrestled between temptation and logic. He asked Taehyung, “If you’re going to be away for such a long time, who’s going to take care of the company?”The alpha pinched the boy’s chin. “There’s this thing called the Internet,” he said and gestured at his cousin.Jungkook held his hands up, palms open. “And there’s superhuman me. I’m not second in command for nothing. The company isn’t going to die just because Taetae is away for three weeks.”After some hesitancy, Jimin jutted out his lower lip. “Okay. I will check out the air tickets and accommodation when I get home this evening. Air BnB should have some good deals.”Taehyung looked at him, as though he were speaking in an alien language.  “Who says you’re going to pay? The trip’s on me. Everything. We’re flying first class, Jimin.”“But that’s-”“No buts. No arguments on this.” ***Jimin had never been abroad, so the idea of touring the States with Taehyung was tempting. The package was made more complete when the alpha had suggested the prospect of spending Christmas and New Year together, just the two of them, in a foreign city.However, the more Jimin thought about it, the more he found it difficult to accept the luxury which Taehyung was offering. Who in the right mind would fly first class and stay in five-star penthouse suites for three weeks? It would burn a hold in his pocket. But this was Kim Taehyung and as far as Jimin was concerned, the alpha was rarely in the ‘right mind’ when it came to extravagance.Jimin’s hands were tied now, since the rest – Hoseok and Jungkook – had conspired against him and were as determined as Taehyung to see through the alpha’s holiday plans.But his preoccupation with the trip was pushed to the back of his mind when Taehyung had received a call from Lily Kim the following afternoon. The alpha’s mother had initiated an afternoon tea with his son for the coming Saturday, and asked him to bring Jimin.An invitation to the Kim’s residence. For tea.It was enough to distract Jimin from everything else. When Saturday arrived, his mind became a nervous chicken flapping inside his head. “Oh my my my…” Jimin paced Taehyung’s kitchen nervously, then paused before the big basket of fruits on the dining table.The basket was bursting with colours of various fruits– big round apples, oranges, peaches, strawberries, bananas, grapes, etc – which Jimin had meticulously picked at a premium supermarket before putting them together and wrapping the basket to look gift-worthy presentable. He believed he’d prepared to the best of his abilities, but now he was having doubts.He flapped towards Taehyung, who was leaning against the counter and watching him. “What if your Mom doesn’t like this? I should’ve bought a better gift.”Taehyung assured him. “My Mom will like anything you give her.”“Oh no… there’s a crease here.” Jimin looked down at the new shirt he’d pressed twice in the morning and then fussed with his tie. “Does blue match or should I change to a silver one? Oh no this doesn’t look like a nice colour now.”Smiling, Taehyung pushed away from the counter and wrapped his arms around Jimin’s waist. “You’re all set and good. Don’t worry. You met my Mom, and she likes you. All you need to do is smile, relax and eat as much as you can later.”Jimin kept his head down. “I don’t want to embarrass you.”Pushing Jimin’s chin up with his finger to meet his gaze, Taehyung said gently, “I told you. Always keep your head up.”“If I get carried away and ended up babbling non-stop, you must stop me.”“I like seeing you talk non-stop. It’s mesmerising.”“Are you really sure your father won’t be there?”“He’s attending a conference, I heard,” Taehyung said as his expression went serious at the mention of his father. “Even if he’s there, he’s not getting anywhere near you. You are safe with me.”With Taehyung soothing him, the spike of anxiety which Jimin had been feeling at the thought of going to the Kim’s residence mellowed.Pushing his fears aside, he took and released a deep breath. “Okay… let’s go.” Taehyung drove them to the Kim’s residence. During the car ride, the alpha put on jazz music to sooth Jimin’s nerves. He kept talking to Jimin, assuring him that all he had to do was to be himself.After they parked, Taehyung helped Jimin out of his car and they crossed the gardens towards the mansion.Although the early signs of winter was chilling the air, Jimin was hot with jitters inside. He insisted on carrying the fruit basket when Taehyung tried to take it from him. The basket felt heavier than him and wobbled his balance as they started up the wide marble steps leading to the front doors. Hugging the giant basket, Jimin kept his body turned away from Taehyung so that the alpha could not seize it away from him.The giant doors swung open. Servants in uniforms forming two lines at the high-ceiling hall greeted them in synchronised bows.A senior man who Jimin identified as the lead housekeeper from his special uniform appeared. “Welcome home, Third Master. It’s good to see you.”Moving his hands into his pockets, Taehyung beamed at the elderly. “Good to see you, Wang.”Wang, the housekeeper turned to Jimin with a friendly smile. “You must be Mr. Park. It’s a pleasure to meet your acquaintance.” “N-nice to meet you.” Jimin smiled back. He attempted to bow and his forehead knocked onto the tip of the basket.“Let me take these for you.” Wang offered.Jimin shifted to spread the soreness of in arms from the weight of carrying the basket. “No worries. I can manage it. I’d like to give this to Dr. Kim personally.” “Let him be.” Taehyung said, smiling and shaking his head.“My boys are here.” A feminine voice laughed very gently. Wearing a traditional cheongsam, Lily Kim graced her steps towards them, a welcoming and genial smile on her face. In that instance, Jimin remembered why he liked this woman so much.“Mom,” Taehyung greeted.Jimin smiled and tried for a half-bow due to the basket getting in the way. “It’s nice to see you, Dr. Kim.”Lily Kim’s smile spread even wider at the sight of Jimin, but a small frown puckered her brows when she saw the giant basket that Jimin was holding. She turned to Taehyung with a reproachful twist of her lips. “You should’ve carried this for Jimin. Look at the poor boy carrying it himself.”Taehyung rolled his eyes towards the jewelled chandelier.  “Mom, he insisted on doing so. I couldn’t stop him.”“It’s not Taehyung’s fault,” Jimin put in hurriedly and held out the basket before Lily Kim. “I-I wanted to give this to you personally. It’s not much, but I hope you like this humble gift. Thank you for inviting me here for tea. It’s my pleasure.”“I love it, Jimin. They look delicious. We will have some cut up for tea later.” Lily clasped her hands, eyeing the fruits appreciatively. She then motioned for Wang who stepped in to unload the basket from Jimin.“Jimin chose and picked them from four different supermarkets before wrapping them up,” Taehyung added.“That’s wonderful of you,” Lily Kim praised, and then wrapped Jimin into a motherly hug. “I’m so happy to see you again, dear. Ah, my boy.”“Mom… your son’s here,” Taehyung reminded, but was conveniently ignored for a while before Lily Kim roped him into a hug that lasted a little shorter than Jimin’s.They proceeded to a glass house annexed to the main building which served as the tea room. Sunlight spilled in from tall glass windows overlooking the manicured lawns. They sat at a round table for eight, before a gorgeous gourmet spread of pastries served on glittering trays.“Taehyung says you like strawberry pastries.” Lily Kim smiled and fussed over Jimin in a motherly manner. She put a strawberry tart on Jimin’s plate, followed by some macaroons.“Thank you,” Jimin accepted his plate gratefully, and chose a matcha tart for Lily Kim.Taehyung, obviously up to no good, picked a chocolate doughnut and dropped it onto Jimin’s plate with a suggestive wink.Instant heat fanned Jimin’s cheeks. He tried not to wheeze.Over the course, Jimin found himself enjoying the tea session more than he’d imagined.  Lily Kim was exactly the woman he’d remembered since the first time they’d met in Jeju. The doctor was about elegance and class, but unlike her husband, carried herself with unpretentiousness and humour. Her eyes, which Taehyung had inherited, smiled when she laughed.She treated Jimin with entertaining childhood stories about Taehyung, such as the time when the alpha was so frightened by Namjoon’s Bogeyman tales that he’d wet his bed; the time when Taehyung was eight and sent a flying kick to the neighbour’s teenage son because the latter had bullied Jin; and how teenage Taehyung would sneak out to the arcades at night with Jungkook, only to be punished by his Dad upon return, but would nevertheless do it all over again.The stories had Jimin in laughter until he was slapping his thigh, particularly those involving Namjoon and Jin, because the alpha hardly shared them with him whenever they talked about their childhood.Through it all, Taehyung had his hand on Jimin’s lap, assuring and keeping him grounded from his nerves.“I assume the both of you are attending Jin and Namjoon’s wedding. Is that correct?” Lily Kim asked as she selected the biggest slice of strawberry chiffon for Jimin.“We will be there,” Taehyung gave a tight smile as he squeezed Jimin’s lap.Trying not to get distracted by the prospect of travel, Jimin asked, “How are the wedding preparations going?”Lily refilled their tea. “It seems to be going smoothly. They took the photo albums to the studio this morning to pick some childhood photos for the video.” She added with a wistful sigh, “It’s a pity, because I was hoping to show you baby photos of Taehyung today.”“Mom…” Taehyung groaned in a childlike manner which Jimin hadn’t seen in him before.“What’s wrong with letting your boyfriend see your childhood photos?” Lily Kim questioned.“They are embarrassing,” Taehyung said.Jimin would have offered a tap dance on the table to see baby photos of the alpha. He grinned, “No worries. I’m sure there will be a chance to see them someday.” Later, Taehyung led Jimin by hand to his bedroom in a corner on the third floor of the Kim’s residence.Stepping into the alpha’s bedroom that held memories of his childhood and teenage years felt special to Jimin. He absorbed the surroundings slowly – the royal blue and white stripes plastering the walls, the TV console and two giant bean bags sitting on a round lush carpet, the study area taking up a side of the room - and imagined Taehyung spending his youth in his room.It was like walking down a memory lane Jimin wasn’t privy to, those times in the alpha’s life before their paths had crossed. Jimin imagined teenage Taehyung crammed over at the desk, pouring over books and burning midnight oil for exams. The TV console and bean bags wove images of kiddies Taehyung and Jungkook fighting over victory in video games.Jimin smiled at the images playing inside his mind. He moved further, past the partitioned shelves to the double bed. He flopped his body on to it, rolling himself over the soft silky sheets. He pressed his face into one of the pillows and took a deep breath.Seconds later he turned his face from the pillow and grinned at Taehyung. “I can’t smell you.”The alpha chuckled darkly. “It’s been years since I slept there. If you need my scent, the pillows in our current bedroom would serve your purpose better.”Taehyung walked over and dropped to sit on the edge of the bed. With his hands on the sheets, he surveyed the room. “It’s been a long time since I’m back. They kept it clean and well-maintained.”Jimin scooted towards Taehyung and plopped his head down onto the alpha’s lap. Staring at the ceiling, he said, “Maybe your family has this hope that you will return someday, even if it’s only for a stayover. Your room is bigger than mine back home. It’s also very cosy.”Taehyung looked down at him, his dark locks falling forward to the side of his eyes.“You need a haircut soon,” Jimin commented, reaching out with his hand to tuck the alpha’s locks behind his ears.With his gaze still on Jimin’s, Taehyung held his hand and entwined their fingers. He said quietly, “Say you’ll come with me to the States.”Jimin pouted with a soft sigh. “I have no choice... right? Hobi’s locking me out if I’m not going with you.”“No, I want you to be feeling genuinely happy to come with me. If it makes you comfortable, we can fly on economy class and stay in cheaper hotels.” Taehyung’s gaze, gentle and yearning, never left Jimin’s as he continued. “I really want to spend Christmas and New Year with you, Mochi. Just the two of us.”The alpha’s heartfelt words were like light filtering off the insecurities tugging at the dark corners of Jimin’s heart. It was again that same overwhelming feeling of affection as he looked into Taehyung’s eyes. They gave Jimin the kind of warmth and assurance only the alpha could.Had he been too harsh to Taehyung for rejecting his generosity? It wasn’t like Taehyung was expecting him to prove himself worthy of his affection. All the alpha wanted was a holiday with him.In that moment another layer of doubt evaporated from Jimin. He squeezed their interlaced fingers and smiled. “Okay, I will go to the States with you. On your terms too.”The smile on Taehyung’s face spread. He bent down and captured Jimin’s mouth into a warm kiss. The smile on the alpha’s face, and the loving way he kissed him made Jimin felt that his decision was worth it.“I love you, Kim Taehyung.” He breathed softly between kisses.+++End

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“This is so ridiculous. Which guy would attend his ex’s wedding when he still has feelings for her?” Sitting on the couch with his legs crossed underneath, Hoseok grimaced at the k-drama playing on TV.Jimin blinked up from his travel guide book to look at the screen. The couple were now parting ways on the bridge. Tears were rolling down the female lead’s eyes as she walked away.He commented to Hoseok, “Maybe this sort of stuff only happens in dramas?”“It’s damn silly.” Hoseok stuffed a handful of popcorn into his mouth.Jimin smiled. “You still like it though.”“But seriously, that bride’s a bitch for inviting her ex to her wedding,” Hoseok grumbled. “Hey woman, you don’t have to show off your happiness to people in your past tense.”Jimin tapped his pen on his lips, considering. “Thank God, our relationships are not that complicated.”“Yeah man,” Hoseok agreed. He stuck a leg out and shifted his body to face Jimin. “Imagine how the current girlfriend must have felt when she realised that the guy still loves his ex. Idiots!”Used to his friend’s over engrossment with TV dramas, Jimin shrugged with a grin and returned to his guidebook, making pencil notes on places of interest in LA and Florida.It’d been a week since he’d promised Taehyung to go to the States with him. Since then, the anticipation which’d started off as a small dim of hope had been building up. He was now absolutely looking forward to the trip. It would be his first time abroad. And with Kim Taehyung.Hoseok leaned over to peer at Jimin’s book. “Have you jotted down the places you’d like to go?”Jimin nodded. “Yup. I’ve noted some places I’m keen to visit – Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Cheesecake Factory… I’m leaving the main itinerary to Taehyung. He’s been to LA a couple of times and would know better.”“Ask him to take you to Rodeo Drive… there are many designer shops there. Alphas like him love showing off his spending power and splurging on gifts for their lovers.”Jimin winced at the idea. “It’s exactly why I’m not putting that on my travel list.”Hoseok steadied his eyes on him. “You know his money is also your money, right? Just spent it!”“But I’m not going to need designer bags and clothes,” Jimin said. Already, Taehyung’s gifts for him were crowding his wardrobe. He had told the alpha to stop spending money on him, but that seemed to only encourage him to do otherwise. For this trip, Jimin was determined to focus on cultural places and indulging in local food. As for shopping, he would limit it to buying souvenirs for friends and colleagues. He glanced up at Hoseok. “Send me a list of things you want. I will get them for you.”His friend swept a hand in the air. “Nah, I’m good. Just have fun and remember, safety first.” His eyes wandered to the ceiling, turning dreamy. “I’ll be cheering for Joongki with Yoongi.”During the period when Jimin would be away at the States, Hoseok would stay over at Yoongi’s place. The couple would also attend Song Joongki’s fanmeeting, followed by a two-day onsen trip at a resort in the mountains.Jimin laughed under his breath. He still couldn’t quite believe that Yoongi had actually agreed to attend the fan meeting with Hoseok, and had even been the one to acquire the VIP seats by pulling strings. When the secretary had broken the news to everyone, Jungkook almost rolled off the chair laughing while Taehyung drew Jimin into his arms, whispering ‘thank heavens I don’t have to do that for you’.At least with Yoongi taking care of Hoseok, Jimin felt less guilty for leaving his friend behind. In the previous years since Hoseok’d converted to a Joongki fan, it had always been Jimin attending the fan meetings with him. This would be first time the two friends are spending Christmas and New Year in different continents.“How time flies… it’s almost two years since we left Busan,” Jimin remarked whimsically. He thought about how he and Hoseok went from single to attached, nurturing their respective romantic relationships. Yet through it all, their friendship remained constant, a bond keeping them together.Hoseok propped his chin on his fist, a meaningful smile pulling at his lips. “Do you still remember our bet back in school? First one to get married will receive a ten-thousand dollar cheque from the other.”Jimin laughed, reaching out for the popcorn box between them. “Of course, I do. That’s hilarious.”“We have exactly a year left to win the bet,” Hoseok said.“We’ll see who reaches the finishing line first,” Jimin winked.His intuition was telling him that his friend would be the one between them to tie the knot first. Out of Hoseok’s boyfriends, Yoongi was the longest and undoubtedly the most stable. Jimin could see it in the couple’s eyes, that they were serious about each other. If the day came when Jimin had to watch his friend walk down the wedding aisle, he would happily honour the bet and give his blessings.As for Jimin, he was contented with the way things were developing between him and Taehyung. He knew they were long past the ‘getting to know each other stage’, but he didn’t mind taking things slow. While Hoseok thrived on the fast lane, Jimin did better on the slow track. Although the idea of marrying Taehyung made his heart raced, he didn’t see marriage on the cards for now. After all, love was supposed to be patient and he wasn’t about to rush into something he wanted to last forever. To Jimin, Kim Taehyung was his forever. Hence, he wanted to nurture their love with care.Right now, he was also occupied with thoughts of the US trip.But before that, there was one more thing on Jimin’s to-do list. A present for Taehyung’s birthday.The Alpha’s birthday was 30th December, which meant that they would be in the States by then. From the plans which Taehyung had shared, Jimin only knew they would be in one of the Disney resorts in Florida during that period.Jimin kept thinking about what present to get for Taehyung. The Alpha had no lack of anything which made gift sourcing a challenging task.He had considered making something from scratch. His mind brimmed with ideas such as home baked cookies, a knitted scarf or a knitted sweater. He’d also mulled over the idea of sketching a picture and then have it framed before presenting it to Taehyung. But that would seem presumptuous. What if Taehyung felt obliged to hang the picture somewhere even if it didn’t blend well with the room’s ambience?He scraped off those ideas and continued searching. Jimin’s answer came the following afternoon. He was strolling in the mall after his lunch. There was still some time left before he was due to go back to the office.He was passing by a watch shop when something in the display window caught his attention.An idea hit upon him, settled nicely like a god-sent solution. He knew what birthday present to get for Taehyung. He stepped into the shop to make some quick enquiries. Having found the perfect gift for the alpha, Jimin practically danced his way back to the office building. He pressed the lift button at the lobby, unable to stop that silly grin from spreading on his face. As it was slightly after the lunch hour, the lobby was quieter, with a majority of the office people already returned to their respective places.As he waited for the lift, design ideas bloomed inside his head that he couldn’t wait to work on them. His plan was to send his sketch over to the designer in a week’s time so that the shop had time to make the gift. Jimin wondered how Taehyung would react when he eventually presented it to him, but he had a positive feeling that the alpha would like it. He had to stop himself from chuckling stupidly in public when the lift doors dinged opened-Jimin looked up. He felt his smile vanished as he stood face to face with Kim Sooro,.The older man stepped out of the lift. If he was surprised to see Jimin, his face revealed nothing of such. His unyielding gaze held Jimin captive, so much so that Jimin lost the ability to move.“Dr.. Dr. Kim… Good afternoon” he stuttered, tipping his head down in greeting.Questions sped past his mind, hitting him like a boomerang. What is Dr. Kim doing here? Why is he in Taehyung’s office? What problem is it now?Kim Sooro said with the usual indifference that Jimin’d remembered. “Our meeting is long due. Is there a place we can talk in private?”It wasn’t a question, but a command.All remaining warmth drained off Jimin’s body. “Th-there is a garden terrace on one of the floors… it-it should be unoccupied at this time.”“Show me.” Another command.“Okay.” Against his instincts screaming at him to call Taehyung for help, Jimin pressed the button again for the next lift. Jimn stood before Kim Sooro, in the middle of the garden terrace. Out of politeness, he’d asked the older man if he would like to take one of the benches, but he said they weren’t here to sit.The afternoon sun shone in the sky, providing some warmth to the otherwise chilly winter air. Nevertheless, Jimin’s ears were numbing from the cold, a contrast to the heat pounding his heart.When Kim Sooro kept his steely eyes on him but made no inclination to speak, Jimin looked away. He felt another wave of judgement careening towards him and his insides rattled horribly with fear.Swallowing the hard lump in his throat, Jimin summoned the courage to speak. “Is there something that you want to ask me?”“It’s about Taehyung’s business,” Kim Sooro said, his impassive tone betraying nothing.That made Jimin’s worry grow. He flited his eyes back to the doctor. “Has something happened to V Inc? Is that why you are here?” Because he found no good reason for Kim Sooro to be here. The doctor had undoubtedly made it clear that he saw his son’s company as some Mickey mouse business, and that thought still left a sour taste in Jimin.Folding his arms across his chest in manner assertive of his authority, Kim Sooro said, “Assuming that Taehyung needs a new investor for his project, and I’m the only one who can help him. Do you think I should help him, and on what terms?”Jimin gulped. “I don’t understand what you mean.”“It’s easy, isn’t it? To push away your responsibility with ignorance.”“Is the company in trouble?”Kim Sooro went on, keeping his tone cruelly brusque. “We’re talking about millions here. One wrong move and the company goes down.”Jimin’s worries escalated and his hands clamped into fists beside him. What was happening? Was he missing something? As his mind racked through the atmosphere in the office, nothing had felt odd. He also hadn’t sensed any wrong vibes from Taehyung, Jungkook and their team. In fact, his colleagues had seemed merrier and were relaxing more than usual in view of the coming holiday season.Jimin struggled for calm as his thoughts scattered in a frantic buzz. He said to Kim Sooro, “If Taehyung’s business is really in trouble, shouldn’t you help him as his father?”Kim Sooro casted a scathing look down on Jimin. “I will help Taehyung. On one condition.”Jimin needn’t need him to say what. Kim Sooro’s intentions were clear.“And that would be?” But he still asked in a weak whisper.“Leave Taehyung.” Kim Sooro’s words were like a blow to his stomach.“Why? I… don’t understand…” Jimin shook his head slowly as the older man’s unforgiving eyes devoured him.  Intimidated, he dropped his head and stared down hard at the floor, begging that it would simply open up and swallow him.“Do you still think you are good enough for my son?” Kim Sooro questioned.Pain laced Jimin’s throat. “I… I’m working hard not to be his burden.”“And you believe that’s enough?”“I..I’m trying.”“Ask yourself if you’ve tried hard enough,” Kim Sooro challenged. It was the sick feeling all over again, hitting Jimin in the pit of his stomach. In that awful moment, he was transported him back to the day when Namjoon had brought him to the Kim’s residence. He was back in Kim Sooro’s study, when the older man had humiliated him with money in exchange for leaving Taehyung. Jimin still remembered, in mortifying detail, how Kim Sooro had insulted the apples which he’d brought for the visit and how he had implied that he was beneath his son.Why couldn’t he love someone without people poking their noses into his relationship?“An answer from you is all that’s needed,” Kim Sooro pushed on, insensitive to Jimin’s hurt. “Say you will leave Taehyung and I will help him.”When Jimin didn’t – couldn’t – respond, he added, “You’ll get a million. You won’t be short changed even if you’d benefited enough by leeching on my son.”I’m not leeching on Taehyung, Jimin wanted to scream but his voice was faraway.With his head hung low, his thoughts spiralled.V Inc was in trouble. Taehyung had mentioned nothing about it to him.The only person who could save the company was the man standing before him now.But Kim Sooro had one condition - that Jimin himself would leave Taehyung for good.As Jimin’s head dropped lower, his dejection grew and threatened to overtake him. All those times he had shared together with the alpha came flowing back into his mind, like a movie playing; how Taehyung would watch over him; how much they had each changed for the better since getting together as a real couple; how they would argue because of differences and then come back together as one to work things out; how special the alpha made him feel; how Taehyung had now become his forever…Could he even bring himself to leave Taehyung?Why must he give up his own happiness to save the man he loved? This was so unfair.But what else could he do?Tears stung the back of Jimin’s eyes.And then…Taehyung’s voice floated into his thoughts.
Always keep your head up. Even when you don’t feel confident, fake it till you make it.

I told you. Keep your head up.
A glimmer of hope pierced through the dark clouds shadowing Jimin.Determination poured through him. His own sense of worth mattered too. His own happiness mattered too.Fuck this. Fuck Kim Sooro.Jimin lifted his head, keeping his chin high as he met Kim Sooro straight in the eyes. Even though he was quaking inside, he forced his words out, loud and clear. “I cannot leave Taehyung, and I’m not sorry about it.”A tiny twitch in Kim Sooro’s jaw hinted of his surprise, but he instantly masked it. “You are telling me that you don’t care about the consequences.”Keeping his fists clenched on his sides, Jimin let out a shaky breath. “I don’t want to leave Taehyung. He needs me.”Kim Sooro demanded, “And how would a person of your standing help my son?”Jimin’s shoulders slumped, but he pushed on with new courage. His eyes never left the older man as he said, “I don’t know, Dr. Kim. I honestly can’t give you an answer on how I’m planning to help Taehyung. But before you call me out for being ignorant, let me tell you, I’m just being honest. The truth is – I. Don’t. Know. I don’t know anything about business management. I have no clue about the state of Taehyung’s business affairs. But thank you, Dr. Kim, for bringing that to my attention. As Taehyung’s boyfriend and working for him, I should have paid more attention to his business affairs instead of letting it slide just because he said that he’ll take care of those things. I will talk to him and find out what happened. We will work this out together.”“You think you can help him.” Kim Sooro’s tone was mockery rather than a statement of fact.Jimin spread his hands out, his frustrations piling on top of his worries. “Look, I’m not confident that I can help Taehyung. In fact, I don’t even know if I’d be a hindrance than a help. But I will try, okay? There’s Jungkook, there’s Yoongi and a team supporting V, Inc. Taehyung will not fight this crisis alone. We will figure a way out together.” “You are too naïve,” Kim Sooro said.Jimin knew at this point that his patience with this old man had snapped completely. His steel-hard determination eroded all remaining fears. “Perhaps I’m naïve, or you can even say I’m being silly. But I want to make this clear to you, Dr Kim. I’m not leaving Taehyung. Not for a million dollars or for anything that you would offer. We didn’t come so far just for you to tear us apart. I may have overestimated myself, but I think Taehyung will go crazy if I leave him.”Kim Sooro remained silent as his unfathomable gaze assessed Jimin.Refusing to back down, Jimin held his gaze even though his heart was hammering hard against his ribs.After what felt like minutes, the anger in Jimin slipped off, replaced by a disheartening sensation. He choked out, “What’s the point of saving the company when you can’t even save your son? So please Dr Kim… If you are the only person who can help Taehyung as you’ve said, then please help him. Without any condition, just help him. But if you don’t, we will still find a way out,” He forced his tears back, swallowed them down. “I’m not leaving Taehyung. When two people really care about each other, they always find a way to make things work. I’m sure you and Lily Kim have been through enough to understand that.”At the mention of his wife’s name, something in Kim Sooro’s eyes flashed.“Dad? Jimin?” A warning voice called out. Jimin looked back, and all he felt was relief as Taehyung strode towards them in big steps. The alpha’s face was grim.“Taehyung…” Jimin called out.The alpha put a warm hand on Jimin’s arm, his touch assuring. But his jaw and shoulders were taut with tension, as though readying for battle. “Are you alright?”“No, it’s just – I mean I’m fine-” Jimin fumbled.Taehyung nudged Jimin behind him and faced Kim Sooro with clenched teeth.  “I told you to stay away from him.”But Jimin tugged at Taehyung’s arm, coming up to his side. “What happened to the company? Is there something you’re not telling me?”The alpha gave puzzled frown. “What?”“The company.” Jimin pressed on. “Is the business in trouble? Why are you not telling me anything?”Now Taehyung looked utterly lost. “Wait, who told you these things? Nothing’s wrong with the company.”Slipping his hands into his pockets, Kim Sooro straightened his posture and admitted with delighted grace. “I told Jimin that your company took a tumble and needs my saving.”The perplexity on Taehyung’ face deepened. He warned, “I don’t know why you’re making up all these lies, but you need to stop whatever games you are playing. I told you to leave Jimin out of this.”A rare smile hinted at Kim Sooro’s mouth as he tipped his head slightly to the side. “Your boyfriend is something.”Because the doctor’s tone this time did not carry his usual disparagement, Jimin blurted out confusedly. “Why did you lie to me?”For the first time, Kim Sooro looked at Jimin as though he was addressing an equal – or a near equal. “I’m looking forward to your performance, Park Jimin.”Jimin blinked. “Huh?”Taehyung flashed his teeth, watching before making his move.“I need to be going,” Kim Sooro said. He paused as he passed by the both of them. Without looking at Taehyung, he continued, “I hope you remember your promise.”“The same goes to you,” Taehyung gritted out.The doctor’s eyes carried a small trace of smile as he regarded Jimin. “I believe I will see you at the wedding,” he said, referring to Jin and Namjoon’s wedding.He walked towards the lobby, leaving a still-confused Jimin behind.“What just happened?” Jimin asked.Taehyung’s lips curved into a smug smile as a kind of realisation dawned. His shoulders relaxed. “Dad was testing you. I believe he asked you questions and you passed whatever fucking test he gave. It’s not uncommon of a sly fox like him to do that.”“Wait…” Jimin paused, trying to connect the dots. “You mean there’s nothing wrong with the company? Was he just testing me? For what? Why is he here?”Taehyung pinched his nose. “So many questions. He came – or rather, I invited him here for an office tour and pitched some business proposals for his hospital. We’re gunning for the big data industry next, and the medical field is an ideal place to start.”“Then what did he say?” Jimin pressed on, tugging onto Taehyung’s sleeve.The alpha shrugged as they watched his father disappeared into the lift. “He’s going to consider our proposal, but Jungkook and I believe he will give the green light.”Jimin breathed out in relief. “Your Dad… he really gave me a fright just now. But looking back, I think he was less hostile this time.”Taehyung laced their fingers together and started walking with Jimin to the lobby. “My take is that after the day when he took you away, I stopped contacting him. I can’t say for sure what happened during the past months, but I think something must have changed him, for him to accept my invitation and consider the proposal.”Jimin smiled. “That’s a good sign. I’m happy for you, Taehyung.”The alpha paused his steps and gave him a contemplative look. “Whatever you said to Dad must have impressed him enough to leave us alone. Tell me, what did he ask you?”Jimin sighed. “The same thing. But this time round he cooked up a lie that the company’s in trouble. He said he could save it but wanted me to leave you. In return, he would give me a million.”“What was your answer to that?”The anticipation in Taehyung’s voice made Jimin very self-conscious. He pulled his hand away from the alpha and snorted.  “I told him I want five million.”Taehyung’s eyes widened. “You didn’t say that.”Jimin flustered and pretended to be busy with his watch. “Oh! It’s running late. I better get back to work.”Without giving Taehyung a chance to speak, he made a quick beeline for the lift.“Quick, tell me what you said to my Dad,” the alpha kept chasing for answers as they entered the lift.“Not going to tell you,” Jimin felt heat flushing his cheeks. Ignoring Taehyung’s eyes on him, he studied the lift buttons as though they were the most interesting specimens in the world. As the lift buzzed its way up, Taehyung asked quietly, “Are you not gonna tell me?”Jimin looked upwards and hummed a melody.Without warning, Taehyung slammed his palm on the emergency button. In the next second, the deafening siren filled the lift as it jerked to a halt.“What are you doing!” Jimin startled and the alpha aimed him a winning smirk.Seconds later, the siren stopped ringing and a voice said through the intercom. “Is every all right, President Kim?”“The lift has stopped,” Jimin said loudly into the intercom. “Could you please-mmmhhmm-” His words were silenced off by Taehyung’s hand over his mouth. He fought futilely under the alpha’s strong grasp.“Nothing to worry about,” Taehyung said smoothly to the intercom, keeping Jimin hushed in his arms. “Please stop this lift and turn off the camera for twenty minutes.”“Noted, President Kim.” The intercom went dead.“What’s all this about?” Jimin hissed out.Taehyung jerked off his own tie and threw it towards the camera above, blocking its view. He braced his arms on the sides of Jimin’s head, trapping him against the wall. “Tell me what you said to my Dad.”Jimin groaned, “I… forgot what I said.”Taehyung swooped down and kissed him on the lips. “Try again.”“I can’t remember,” Jimin continued to protest, his hands curled up against the alpha’s chest in an attempt to push him away.Taehyung’s lips captured Jimin’s again in a deep kiss, holding for several seconds longer before letting go. “One more time.”Jimin squirmed. “It’s embarrassing.”The alpha pecked him on the nose. “Try again.”Jimin attempted a manly growl but it came out like a kitten’s meow.Taehyung laughed. He skimmed Jimin’s jawline with his nose, planting soft biting kisses on his skin. “Tell me. I need to know.”Letting out a resigned breath, Jimin averted the alpha’s eyes. “Well…” he began hesitantly. “I told your Dad that you’ll go crazy if I leave you…and that I won’t leave you…”“And…?” Taehyung prompted, one hand working on loosening Jimin’s tie.“… and that no amount of money he gives will make me leave you.” Jimin gave up struggling. “I told him that if two people are serious about each other, they stay together and figure a way out,” he finished with a mumble, so embarrassed that he just wanted to cringe into a ball and die. When Taehyung made no sign of letting him go, he whined, “That’s all. I can’t remember the rest…. Really!”To Jimin’s surprise, his feet lifted off the floor as Taehyung pulled him up and hugged him close.“Thank you,” the alpha whispered into Jimin’s hair.“You are so childish, you know. I can take you to court for false imprisonment.”The alpha chuckled darkly. He put Jimin down and took his hands in his, kissing his little fingers. He closed in and dropped a warm, moisten kiss on Jimin’s neck. “I wouldn’t have to do this if you told me earlier.”“Can we ask them to get the lift working now?” Jimin gasped at the shivers of delight tingling down his spine when Taehyung flicked his warm tongue against his ear.“I’m afraid not,” the alpha murmured. “We’ve got fifteen minutes left.”“This is the lift,” Jimin’s voice strained, his knees going weak at the alpha touching him.“I know, Mochi.” Taehyung freed up Jimin’s tie and popped open the first two buttons of his shirt. A new wave of pleasure skittled against Jimin’s nerves.“Tae-” Even as he was nervous, his voice was begging Taehyung not to stop. He released a long whimper as Taehyung’s hands went underneath his singlet and his thumb pressed his nipple.“What if they see us?” Jimin gasped.“They won’t if we do it in fifteen minutes,” Taehyung assured with a sense of calm. He brought their lips together again, his tongue slipping in as he flattened Jimin against the wall. His hardened groin rubbed against Jimin’s belly.“I’ve not done this in the lift before,” Jimin moaned into the alpha’s mouth, his hands sinking into the alpha’s hair.“Trust me, this is my first time,” Taehyung growled. His hands wandered down to unbuckle Jimin’s belt. “You make me do crazy things, Mochi.”With that, the nerves within Jimin unknotted into sighs of pleasure that escaped his mouth. He surrendered himself completely to Taehyung, his hands gliding underneath Taehyung’s jacket and pulling it off his shoulders.Before Jimin knew it, they were naked with their clothes pooled around them. Jimin hooked a leg around the Taehyung’s waist as the alpha pushed himself in. The rhythmic sounds of their breathes and moans filled the air around them as Taehyung thrusted repeatedly into him. The alpha slid his hands down Jimin’s sides and behind, cupping his ass.Taehyung’s hands were rough, his thrusting wild and Jimin loved every bit of it.He came apart fast with the speed that Taehyung was going.Sinking his teeth into Taehyung’s shoulders, his hands clawed around Taehyung’s body for support as the alpha moved faster. Soon a wave of orgasm hit him and sent him crying out the alpha’s name. Taehyung hushed his moans against Jimin’s neck as he exploded his seeds inside him. Fifteen minutes.Fifteen minutes was all it took for them to complete a quickie in the lift. In the remaining seconds before the lift pinged back to life, they gathered their clothes and dressed hurriedly.Jimin’s face and skin were hot, a ball of flustered nerves. His reflection in the glass was a tangled mess as a result of Taehyung’s wicked fingers. He looked like a school boy who’d been caught masturbating in the toilet by the discipline master.Taehyung, on the other hand, remained perfect in his cool element. He steadily buttoned up and slipped on his suit. His hair, which had been messed up by Jimin, carried a wavy look that made him more glorious than ever.“This is so unfair,” Jimin complained as they stepped out of the lift. “My clothes are all crumpled up… and you! You look like you had a makeover.”Shaking his head with a laugh, Taehyung draped an arm over Jimin’s waist and combed his hair with his fingers. “You look perfect.”When they entered Taehyung’s office, Jungkook was already waiting for them inside. He swivelled in his chair to face them, judging them impishly as he took in Jimin’s rumpled clothes.Jungkook rubbed his chin. “I’m deadly certain it doesn’t take that long to get here from the garden terrace.”Jimin felt fresh heat fanning his cheeks. Clearing his throat, he turned to Taehyung. “You didn’t tell me Jungkook was waiting for us.”Taehyung shrugged unapologetically. “I forgot.”As the glass window in the alpha’s office overlooked the garden terrace four storeys below, it didn’t take much for Jimin to gather that the alpha must have seen him with Kim Sooro earlier and went to his rescue.Jimin took the chair beside Jungkook as Taehyung went to sit at his desk.“There’s something I want to tell you,” Taehyung said. From the alpha’s demeanour and the way Jungkook nodded, Jimin guessed that whatever the alpha was about to say must have already been discussed between them.“What is it?” Jimin asked.“I have to make an urgent trip to Tokyo to settle some affairs,” Taehyung replied. “I’m flying there this evening.”The news caught Jimin unaware. Worry came clawing back. “Are you sure everything is okay with the company? Please don’t hide things from me.”Taehyung and Jungkook exchanged quick glances, but Jimin knew them well enough by now to know that it was a silent communication between them.Jungkook turned to Jimin, his shoulders relaxed as he leaned back in his chair. “Jimin ah, if V Inc’s really in trouble, do you think I’d be here doing nothing and let my bratty cousin get all the glory by going into battle alone?”Taehyung added, “It’s only a meeting with some investors in Tokyo. They prefer to discuss things in person.”“You know the thing with the Japanese. Physical meetings are important,” Jungkook stated. Jimin hesitated, but the cheery expression on Jungkook’s face and the unshakable confidence in Taehyung’s words told him that everything should be all right. He should believe them. “When will you be back?”“I won’t be coming back,” Taehyung said. “I will fly straight to LA from Tokyo. I will see you and Jungkook there in a week’s time.”“So I will be flying with Jungkook only?” Jimin asked.“Hey…” Jungkook nudged Jimin with his elbow. “Don’t look so disappointed. I’m a fun travel buddy too.”Jimin forced a tight smile. Truth was, his spirits had withered a little at the thought that he would not be flying together with Taehyung. He’d been looking forward to his first flight overseas with the alpha. Now, he was tempted to suggest going to Tokyo with him, but that would seem childish and irresponsible. He had work projects to complete too before the LA trip. And he needed to work on the alpha’s birthday gift too.Sensing that Jimin was trying hard to contain his disappointment, Taehyung got to his feet and walked over to him. The alpha put a hand on Jimin’s shoulder and his other hand tilted his chin up to face him.“It’s only a week,” Taehyung assured, looking down at Jimin with soft eyes. “You can stay at my place and do anything you want. I promise I’ll see you in LA.”Jimin sighed, brushing away his reservations. He stood up and hugged the alpha. “I will miss you.”Taehyung enveloped him in his arms. “I’m really sorry that I can’t fly to LA with you. I was anticipating that part.”Jimin looked up. “Me too, but it can’t be help. Your work is important.” To cheer themselves up, he smiled at the alpha. “I’ll send you pictures of my lunch and dinner.”Taehyung kissed his hair. “I’ll call you once I arrived in Tokyo.”“No, you don’t have to,” Jimin said. He could only imagine how tiring it must be to travel on a last-minute notice. “You can just text me once you touch down. I’ll try not to disturb you.”Taehyung pressed his lips on Jimin’s temple. “I’ll FaceTime you every day.”Jimin could imagine Jungkook rolling his eyes as the lawyer commented, “Guys, one week apart is not going to kill anyone.”Taehyung shot back at his cousin, “Yeah, but I’m going to kill you if you don’t take good care of Jimin while I’m away.”“I’m not a baby,” Jimin pouted. “I can take care of myself.”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

With Taehyung away in Tokyo and Hoseok occupied with dating life, Jimin had a lot of time by himself in the week that followed.Between work and packing for the LA trip, he found pockets of time to work on Taehyung’s birthday gift. He returned to the alpha’s residence house each evening after work, fed himself prepacked dinner heated from the microwave and showered. After that, he would spend the rest of the night in his studio room to work on the sketch. The design on his mind changed every day and took him time to redraw, causing delay on his part.In the midst of all, he made it a point to talk to Taehyung on FaceTime every night. Mindful that Taehyung looked tired, Jimin did not allow their conversations to drag for long. He was contented just to hear the alpha’s voice and know that he was doing fine. And eating well.That was the endearing yet scary part of a relationship. When you are in love, hours spent with your soulmate felt like minutes. But when you are part, even seconds slogged like hours.Who knew a mere week apart could make him long for someone so much? Jimin missed Taehyung, and he wanted to see him soon. To hug him, to touch him, and to kiss him.“What are you doing now? Turn on the camera.” Taehyung’s eager voice rolled out of Jimin’s phone which was propped up on the desk.Jimin was still working on the sketch which secrecy meant the camera function was turned off. He glanced up at the alpha who was in a white robe and sprawled on the bed of his hotel room. “How has your day been?” He diverted his attention.Taehyung arranged his semi-dry hair, fresh out of shower. “A full day of meetings and all, but they went well. I believe good news is on the way. How about yours?”As Jimin outlined the pencil markings and even out the shading, he filled Taehyung in on the going-ons of his day minus the gift he was preparing.The alpha listened intently with a lazy smile as he rolled sideway in bed and propped himself up on his elbow.“… the house is quiet without you…” Jimin droned on. “There’s your scent and all, but it just feels different.”“I can’t wait till this Saturday,” Taehyung said quietly. “Aren’t you going to show me your face? What are you doing now?”The mischievous idea that surfaced had Jimin giggling under his breath.“What?” The alpha sat up and his eyes turned to slits. “Are you doing something naughty?”“I’m wearing nothing.” Jimin blocked out another burst of laughter.“Show me.”“No.”Taehyung furrowed his brows. “It’s not as if we haven’t seen each other naked.”Putting his pencil down, Jimin cupped his chin in his hands. “I haven’t finish what I was saying. I’m wearing nothing…” he made a deliberately long pause.  “… except for a new pair of silk panties. It’s baby pink and comes with black lacy ribbons at the sides.”Taehyung looked as if some massive force was stomping oxygen out of his body. “You’re going to regret this.”Jimin flipped his head back in laughter. “Fine, you look tired and it’s getting late.  I’ll talk to you again tomorrow. Good night.”“Mochi…” Taehyung made a whining sound that was uncharacteristic of him. “It’s an offense refusing your alpha his human rights.”“I will send you a picture of myself to accompany your dreams.”“In nothing but the panties.”Giggling, Jimin disconnected the call before Taehyung could protest. Long after he ended the call, Jimin stayed up to refine his design and didn’t stop even when his eyelids grew heavy.But an artist knew he’d hit the jackpot when he saw one. The final version of the coloured sketch brought a smile to his face and his heart fluttered with utmost delight. He took a picture of his drawing and e-mailed it to the designer, along with his specifications for the customised gift.He checked the time on his phone, surprised that it was two hours past midnight. Stifling a yawn and stretching his stiff back, he flopped onto the bed and wafted off to dreamland.**On the evening before Jimin was due to fly, he dropped by the designer shop to collect the gift. The delay on his part meant that the shop had only two days to come up with the final product, which cost him an additional premium. The gift had taken up a huge chunk of his salary this month and he could see why it was worth every penny.The designer had followed every specification to detail and added an elegant flair to the final product.Jimin held the dark leather watch in his hands, admiring the craftsmanship.  The elegant timepiece had a picture of Jimin’s drawing embossed on its ivory clock face. The fruit of his labour. He turned the watch to look at its back, which contained the engraved letters, the cursive fonts of which were also his design:
To T with love, J.
His spirits were soaring high as the day to leave for LA approached.He would be seeing Taehyung tomorrow, LA’s time.*The twelve-hour flight was, thankfully, not as tiring as Jimin had imagined.  Looking out the window as he reclined into his wide seat, the spacious comfort was almost the same as lying in bed. The extensive selection of movies kept him entertained and in between breaks from the screen, he talked to Jungkook who distracted him from the occasional turbulence. The smiling cabin crew were constantly feeding them with food - pretty plates topped with gourmet cuisine - and deposited snacks and wine as though it were an all-you-can-eat buffet.The discomfort Jimin had felt in the beginning had significantly reduced as he came to terms that it would always be in Taehyung’s nature to indulge him with the best.  As the pair of them treaded closer to each other in their relationship, Jimin’d learnt that the delicate balance of giving and taking wasn’t in justifying every single generosity that your partner offered, but to appreciate the kind thought that goes behind it and reciprocate it your own way.The shift in mindset relieved some stress off Jimin. He now saw himself as not taking from Taehyung, but as receiving. At the end of the day, a relationship wasn’t a business cost-benefit analysis. It was a voluntary contract between two parties, a promise of ‘we are in this together’ and therefore ‘we will walk through this as one’.He smiled to himself at the thought, until a movement from his periphery vision dragged him out. Turning his head, he saw Jungkook’s eyes on him.“Yes?” He mouthed, pulling his headphones down.The lawyer had his elbow propped on the armrest. “I’m giving you your Christmas present now before my shit-annoying cousin dominates your time and I’m left forgotten.”Eyes widening, Jimin sat up straighter. “You prepared a gift for me?”Jungkook’s eyes slanted. “Hoho. You left out mine, yeah?”Jimin scratched the back of his head with an apologetic puppy face. “I’m sorry. I was planning to get your present in LA or Florida and then give it to you as… a New Year gift.” He’d been too preoccupied with Taehyung’ gift that he didn’t had time to prepare for the rest, but he didn’t’ want to buy half-ass stuff for his friends.Jungkook shook his head, clicking his tongue. “So much for my Best Friend Number Two title.”“Don’t be like that.” Jimin bumped a fist on his upper arm. “I promise I will get you something big.”“Peace, you’re forgiven,” Jungkook said. He retrieved a white fur hat out of nowhere and plopped the headgear over Jimin’s head.“What’s the this for?” Jimin called out in surprise. The thick flaps of the hat covered his ears with warmth.“Merry Christmas.” Jungkook grinned.It then occurred to Jimin that the hat was Jungkook’s Christmas gift to him. Amused, he pulled out his phone and looked at his reflection on the camera app. It was a thick, winter fur hat. Its brim was almost covering his eyes while the thick flaps at the sides resembled a pair of floppy ears. “I look like a dog.”Jungkook cackled, adjusting the headgear for him. “More specifically, a bichon frise. It makes your head big, but at least it fits.”Jimin touched the softness of the fur wrapped around his head. “It’s very comfortable. This will serve me well in the snow.”Jungkook regarded him with a long, contemplative gaze. “You’ll need this. It makes you easier to spot when you are outside.”Jungkook was concerned for his safety in a foreign land, Jimin realised. He said, “So anyone can find me easily if I’m lost?”“Yeah, we just need to make an announcement for people to look out for a boy who looks like a bichon frise.”Jimin grinned his appreciation. “Thank you, Jungkook. This is a very special gift. I love it.”Their plane touched down smoothly at the airport. In the eye of winter, the sun was obscured by grey clouds and the brightening sky was the only clue of dawn.After they had checked out of the customs and collected their luggage, a chauffeured car picked them up and ferried them to Beverly Hills hotel, which would be their accommodation and the venue of Namjoon and Jin’s wedding.Jimin stared out of the window at the passing sceneries, took in the festive Christmas decorations glazing the streets and the colourful bustle of LA. Unlike Seoul with its frosty dryness in winter, LA carried a damp kind of cold.Jimin had received a text from Taehyung, saying that he’d already checked into their room.The hotel was a massive, palatial architecture surrounded by manicured lawns and a stone throw away from the Pacific Ocean coast. The valet took their luggage as Jimin and Jungkook stepped out of the car. Seeing that the bellboy would send their luggage to their rooms, they headed for the lifts after collecting their keys.Christmas was in full swing, with ornaments stringing the lobby. A giant white Christmas tree glittered in the centre of the huge room as guests took up the overstuffed sofas, either lounging or carrying conversations with others.Jimin caught sight of Namjoon and Jin’s wedding poster framed behind a large glass with directions on the reception tonight. They took the lift up to where the presidential suites were. He parted with Jungkook at the hallway, scanned his key card and pushed the solid door open.In the living room of the splendid-looking suite stood Taehyung, his troubled gaze on another wooden door plastered to one side of the wall.The alpha turned his head to him and an instantaneous smile took over his tense features.“Hi.” Jimin grinned. But he wondered if he’d interrupted the alpha. “What’s wrong?”“There’s a connecting door,” the alpha grimaced, motioning to the door he’d been staring at.It didn’t take long for Jimin to put one and one together. He walked over to Taehyung, hugged him from the side. “That should be Jungkook’s room. He’s putting up in the suite next to ours.”“Trust Jin for gooseberry arrangements.” Taehyung said. He enfolded his arms around Jimin, his nose brushing softly into his hair.Jimin wiggled his head away and his cheeks flushed hot. “I just had a long-haul flight and my hair’s grimy. I don’t smell good at the moment.”“You smell perfect. How was your flight?”“I had a good sleep. How about you? Have you eaten?”“I had something light earlier.” Taehyung pecked Jimin on his lips.Jimin gave a nodding smile. When he next looked up into the alpha’s eyes, he saw an intimate gleam of hunger there.Taehyung’s mouth was on his in the next instant as they compressed their eager bodies together.“Do you even practice restraint...” Jimin half-protested although his hands were already making their way underneath Taehyung’s shirt, feeling his skin.“Hmm,” Taehyung’s tongue darted over Jimin’s lower lip and pulled lightly with his teeth. “A week of celibacy is my optimal restraint when it comes to you.”“I missed you,” Jimin mumbled into the alpha’s mouth, taking in his kisses. His arms were around Taehyung’s neck, melting in the sweet longing for him. Without breaking their kisses, the alpha guided him backwards, pinning him to the connecting door.“Not here,” Jimin gasped. “Jungkook will hear us.”“Then you and I have to be very, very quiet,” Taehyung murmured.A fizz of excitement sped into Jimin’s veins as they peeled each other out of their clothes, their hands and mouths roaming on each other’s skins. The alpha’s unbuttoned Jimin’s pants and it dropped from his waist, pooling around his ankles.“What happened to the pink silk panties?” Taehyung ghosted warm, moistened kisses against Jimin’s chest.“I was pulling your leg,” Jimin chuckled, his hands slithering behind Taehyung’s back.“I missed you too.” Taehyung hushed, meshing their mouths together.He took Jimin’s hands in his, turned him around and pressed his palms on the wooden door, his back to him.Jimin felt Taehyung moved away from him and the sudden cold of air that came between them made him ached for contact again.“Taehyung.” Jimin looked over his shoulder to catch a glimpse of the naked alpha.“Patience, Mochi,” Taehyung whispered in a soft lull. “Keep your hands there.”As much as Jimin was dying to touch the alpha, he listened and kept his hands spread against the door. Waiting.Taehyung’s palms travelled down Jimin’s sides while his mouth pressed biting kisses on Jimin’s nape, down his shoulders and spine. Jimin moaned at the tantalising touches that stirred the throbbing between his legs.The alpha’s hand skated to Jimin’s chest, captured a nipple between his finger and thumb and squeezed. His other hand went below Jimin’s body and wrapped around Jimin’s cock, cocooning his member.A loud exhalation pushed its way out of Jimin’s throat. Closing his eyes, his nerves rocked with the dual sensation of Taehyung kneading his nipple and stroking his member at the same time. The heat from Taehyung’s hand against his cock as he massaged him in up-down motions spun a wild frenzy inside him.“Oh, God-” Jimin purred as he threw his head back. In that intimate moment, his entire universe scaled down to the feel of Taehyung playing him.“Not so loud,” Taehyung whispered, his mouth cruising along the exposed skin on Jimin’s shoulder blade.Jimin turned his head to the side in time to meet Taehyung’s wandering mouth. Kissing, pinching and stroking, the alpha’s magical touches filled Jimin’s bucket of pleasure to the rim.It wasn’t long before the sensitive area between Jimin’s legs liquefied completely with fresh primal need.“Now,” Jimin wasn’t ashamed this time as he begged. The alpha’s lips smirked against his shoulder.Jimin felt his legs being pried apart as Taehyung prepped him on what was to come. He hit the first ounce of orgasm at the same time as Taehyung pulled his hips back and entered him from behind. Hands grabbing Jimin’s hips, the alpha began thrusting, sending waves of pleasure down Jimin’s body.“Don’t stop,” Jimin called out in a gasp. His hands remained plastered against the door as he pressed his hips backward to better receive Taehyung’s length.“So eager.” Taehyung rewarded his request with a quicken tempo. He continued ploughing himself in and out of Jimin, speaking loving words softly against his ear and when Jimin moaned, he dragged his mouth to his to stifled the noise.“Mmmmmhhhh..” Jimin moaned into Taehyung’s mouth, feeling the alpha’s fluid movement inside him.Sweat glistened their bodies, a result of skin moving against skin as lewd sounds of flesh slapping against flesh filled the air.“There are so many things I want to tell you,” Taehyung breathed.Lost to the arousing touch of the alpha’s thick hard cock deep inside his warm wetness, Jimin couldn’t reply. Another loud moan was coming out of his mouth and sensing that, Taehyung covered it with his hand, a gentle reminder to keep their voices low.Jimin’s sharp whimper was muted in Taehyung’s palm as another climax gashed through his body. He came, below and apart. The alpha’s body shuddered against his back as he melted inside Jimin. He dropped his head onto Jimin’s shoulder, breathing heavily as his arms circled his waist and pulled him close, his back to his chest.“Gosh…” Jimin panted in fast breathes, his heart beating roughly in tandem with Taehyung’s harsh intakes of air. In the minutes as they descended back from their euphoria, Taehyung looped his arms around Jimin’s waist, securing his back against his chest while he remained buried inside him.When their breathings calmed, Taehyung pulled out of Jimin and slowly turned him around. Taehyung supported Jimin with a strong arm around his waist, keeping him from crumbling to the carpet on jelly legs. The alpha swept pieces of hair away from Jimin’s head, clammy from sweat.Jimin saw the love, the intensity and the longing in Taehyung’s eyes that sent his heart soaring to cloud nine once again. He returned his affectionate gaze with a smile. He loved this man so much and it was beyond physical. He saw in Taehyung his forever and the future they would have.Taking Taehyung’s face in both hands, Jimin tipped his toes and pressed a kiss on his forehead, brushing his sweat away. “That’s a week’s worth of passion,” Taehyung murmured, gathering him in his arms again.Leaning into Taehyung’s chest, Jimin sighed with gratification. “What do you want to tell me?”“Umm?”“You said there are many things you want to tell me.”Taehyung kissed both sides of his cheeks. “Later. We have all the time in the world.”They chuckled softly as they held onto each other. Jimin tried to stay very quiet despite his belief that the presidential suite should come equipped with sound proof walls.But a loud bang pounded from other side of the door, startling him.“I can hear the both you!” Jungkook shouted. “I. Can. Hear. Everything. Clearly!” They idled the rest of the afternoon in bed, with Jimin catching up on his sleep. He drifted off in Taehyung’s arms, snuggling against him on the luxurious bed with satin sheets. When he next woke, it was because the alpha had nudged him awake, bringing him a warm mug of milk and telling him it was time to get ready.Another hour and a hot shower later, they stood before the wall mirror, donned in their individually styled tuxedos which Taehyung had arranged to be tailored made.The alpha’s gaze found Jimin in the mirror. “You ready?”Jimin returned his smile, appreciating his beautiful alpha. The black suit armoured Taehyung’s broad shoulders and accentuated the narrow line of his waist. In contrast to Taehyung’s black, Jimin’s suit was creamed coloured, bringing out his endearing softness that complimented Taehyung’s sophisticated masculinity.Feeling assured with Taehyung by his side, Jimin hooked an arm through the alpha’s. “I’m ready. Let’s go.” Who knew a wedding thrown by an influential family could take so much work? The settings, the sparkle and grandeur of it all was breath-taking and overwhelming in one. Jimin felt like he’d entered a royal wedding scene. With the other guests, they passed the entry way to the ballroom and exchanged greetings with Namjoon and Jin, the stars for tonight.Namjoon’s sleek dark tuxedo compliment Jin’s white suit, like black and white keys on a piano.“Congratulations.” Smiling, Jimin held his hand out for Namjoon and Jin to shake. The couple exchange amused glances.“Really?” Jungkook, who had joined in darted a quizzical look at Jimin. “Don’t you know that the Kim family thrives on hugs?”Jimin scratched the back of his head, but before shyness had time to set roots, Jin roped him into a hug.“Thanks for coming,” he said.“My pleasure. You look wonderful tonight.” Jimin said, feeling the friendly pat of Jin’s hand on his back. He pulled back in time to see Taehyung and Namjoon doing a sort of handshake and punches that only close siblings would do. The smug grins on their faces was all Jimin needed to know that the Kim brothers had finally buried the hatchet.They filtered into the wide ballroom adorned with flowers and pretty lights. Men in suits and women in elegant gowns meandered about in varying degrees of banter. The rich colours of vanilla and white gave the atmosphere an ethereal touch. A live band played romantic music which spilled out into the wide courtyard where couples danced before the glittering pool.Taehyung and Jimin danced together, the alpha taking the lead and soothing his composure.It was a fairy-tale wedding, in which Jin was the princess and Namjoon the prince. They were such a perfect couple and the happiness of their communion couldn’t be any clearer as they joined hands and cut the five-tier wedding cake on stage. Standing at the side of the stage with her husband, Lily Kim wiped at her eyes with a handkerchief.The night went on, with endless music and passing trays of food. Jimin had never felt so overwhelmed by an event. He was thrilled, yet nervous of the crowd.Except for the immediate Kim family and Jungkook, he didn’t know the faces he saw. But through it all, Taehyung stayed by his side. The alpha’s hand rested on Jimin’s hip, acting like his safe harbour. They posed for the cameraman, smiled and made small talks with acquaintances – mostly it was Taehyung who did the talking while Jimin just smiled.People asked the alpha as they gestured to Jimin, “Is he your boyfriend?”The alpha spoke like Jimin was his one and only pride. “We are in a stable relationship.” Warmth spread inside Jimin like a soothing balm at the affirmation.As the hours passed, the champagne was starting to make Jimin’s mind wander and the fatigue from jetlag was setting in. When they were alone again, Taehyung took Jimin’s empty glass away and led him to one of the standing tables.“You okay?” The alpha caressed Jimin’s cheek with his hand, his eyes full of concern.“I’m good,” Jimin smiled, then stifled a yawn with his hand.“It’s late. Why don’t you go back to the room first? I will be with you in a while.”Jimin was aware that the guest list included potential investors which V Inc was pitching for, and Taehyung was hoping to introduce himself to them.He kept his composure and told the alpha. “Don’t worry about me. I can stay here.”Taehyung snaked his free hand around Jimin’s waist and drew him close. “You did very well today. I know you’re staying up for me and I’m proud of you.” His lips curled up into a sincere smile. “Thank you, Jimin. I was able to introduce you as my boyfriend to everyone we met tonight because you stayed with me.”“And thank you for not hiding me from them,” Jimin said.Taehyung looked perplexed. “Why would I do that?”Jimin chewed on his lower lip. Maybe it was the champagne in his body and the magnificence of the wedding that were outdoing his senses. He chuckled stupidly to himself at the idea that there were alphas who were too embarrassed to introduce their boyfriends to the world. But Taehyung wasn’t one of them. It was unfair to put him in the same category.He said to the alpha, “I guess I’ve been watching too much dramas with Hobi these days. There’s usually the part where the male lead thinks his lover is beneath him.”“I’m not the bastard you are talking about.”He returned the Alpha’s childlike reprimand with a grin. “I know.”“But I’m serious. You need to rest now.” Taehyung flicked his nose lightly. “I will take it from here by myself.”“Do you need me to prepare anything for you?”Something glinted in Taehyung’s eyes as his expression next transformed into that of mischief. Leaning in, he whispered hot into Jimin’s ear. “Maybe you can run the bath for me. I want to be clean when I sleep with you tonight.”Jimin’s toes curled with excitement. He pushed himself taller and whispered back into the alpha’s ear. “And maybe if you’re nice and not naughty, we can share the bath together. I’ll wait for you upstairs, my alpha.”He felt a huge kick of delight at the visible gulp gliding down Taehyung’s throat.The alpha flicked his tongue against Jimin’s ear while his hand grabbed his ass. The movement was so slick and sudden that Jimin jerked and let out a startled ‘ooh’. He spun around to see if anyone was watching them.“You!” he hissed under his breath at Taehyung.The alpha smirked. “It looks like my Mochi is also getting naughtier these days. Your alpha will show you how naughty and nice can be inclusive.”Jimin laughed and kissed Taehyung goodbye before making his way for the exit.In high spirits, he was humming a melody and strolling down the atrium towards the lifts when he spotted Jin a distance ahead.“Jin,” he called out.The doctor turned back, a surprised smile on his face as Jimin hurried over to him.“How’s the night?” Jin asked.“It’s fabulous, but…” Jimin ducked his head shyly. “… a little tiring too.”“Talk about socialising in a large crowd.” Jin commented with a shake of his head, and Jimin could see the tiredness beneath that jollity.“I’m taking a short break and leaving the people to Joon for a while,” Jin explained. “Would you like to join me for some tea?”Jimin perked up. “Okay.”They settled in a private longue above the ballroom. There, Jin made tea while Jimin sat on the couch, admiring the royal décor and lush curtains. The Kim family had also booked the private longue to function as Jin’s resting area. He remembered Taehyung had mentioned before about his elder brother’s low threshold for socialising and would need somewhere comfortable to recharge alone.As Jin made tea, Jimin’s gaze settled on what looked like a thick photo album on the mantel piece.“You can look at them.” Jin said, coming back with tray of tea and freshly baked macaroons. He reached for the album and handed it to Jimin. “Mom was nagging at how we took them away when you were visiting.”At the memory of his last visit to the Kim’s residence to have tea with Lily Kim, Jin smiled. “I want to see how baby Taehyung looked like.”Taking the single couch adjacent to Jimin, Jin spoke with fondness as he poured tea. “Tae was mischievous as a kid and could hardly go a day without trouble.” “Your Mom said he landed himself in hot soup a few times trying to defend you from some bullies in school.”Jin laughed. “That’s right. Taehyung protects those who are dear to him.”Jimin flipped opened the large album resting on his knees. The spread of photos rolled the timeline back to childhood, showing the three Kim brothers as children. His biased eyes zoomed in on young Taehyung, probably taken when he was five or six.  The alpha was frowning at the camera, a dash of rebellion already evident in his eyes at a tender age.As Jimin pored over the pages, the smile on his face stretched and the warmth in his chest spread, at the discovery of Taehyung’s childhood taking place in various places – playgrounds, parties, sightseeing spots, etc.The pages gradually progressed to the Kim brothers’ adolescent years, showing the alpha with gangly limbs and a face that spoke of taking down the entire world without nothing but untamed bravery. He mused at how Taehyung had outgrown from the awkward frame in the pictures into the man that he was now, but still retained that fire of angst. Certain things never changed.He flipped to the next page at what looked like a jump into the later years of their youth. Here, Jimin’s focus narrowed down to a photo of Jin, who was visibly skinner as he stood between Namjoon and Taehyung.  Even though Namjoon and Jin were five years ahead of Taehyung, teenage Taehyung matched them in heights.But what caught Jimin’s attention now wasn’t Taehyung. His full  attention was on a picture of Jin in thick wired framed glasses. The rich nest of dark hair resting atop Jin’s head reminded Jimin of how nerdy he used to look.His heart stopped.The Jin in the photo was an exact replica of the old Jimin. Before Taehyung had given him a makeover.The smile on his face vanished as his fingers stopped on the page.Jin laughed uncomfortably. “I used to be a bookworm in my school days. Puberty hit me late.”“What made you change?” Jimin asked quietly.“It was back in those days when Dad was pressurising us to take care of our image. He wanted us to look professional when we attend networking sessions for the hospital. It was a lot of stress keeping up with Dad’s expectations, and handling a difficult relationship with Taehyung didn’t help.”The heaviness in Jimin solidified like harden lead. His face made an involuntary turn towards Jin. “Taehyung and you…dated?”“We were seeing each other for a while,” Jin said. “He was 19 and I was 24. Things didn’t go well between us, and I became a mess – everyone did. I decided to change and give myself a new style. It was a way of saying goodbye to my old self, but in the end it took another detour for me to understand what it means to remain true to ourselves. Joon made me see that.’Jimin tossed through the remaining pages distractedly, as the desperation to find something to prove himself wrong amplified.But no, every photo of Jin in his college years looked exactly like the old version of Jimin himself.Jin continued, filling his tea. “For a long time, Namjoon and I felt really sorry about Taehyung.” His beaming eyes wandered back to Jimin. “But we are happy to see that he’s found his love now.”
His love.
Jimin didn’t need to ask for specifics. It was obvious even to fools that Jin had later fallen in love with Namjoon. No wonder Taehyung had harboured such strong resentment for his brothers. And the alpha had only felt that because he was probably – must be – still in love with Jin.The conclusion hit Jimin like icicles to the heart, stealing the remnants of his rationale.His grip on the edges of the album tightened, the corners digging painfully into his fingers. “I didn’t know Taehyung and you dated.”Jin’s hand holding the cup froze mid-air. Understanding dawned on his eyes, followed by horror.His usual calm wavered as he set his cup back to the saucer clumsily. He inhaled a breath, at a loss as to where to put his hands. “God… I didn’t know. Oh, Jimin, I’m so sorry to upset you. I thought you knew about us.” His voice came out awkward as he placed a hand on Jimin’s arm. “Look, Taehyung’s heart belongs to you now. When we went snowboarding in the mountains last week, he was smiling even as he talked about you.”Jimin sounded accusatory that even Jin flinched. “You went snowboarding with Taehyung last week?” The Alpha told him he was in Tokyo on a business trip.“Joon was there too,” Jin put in urgently. “It was some form of closure for us brothers. But I swear to you, Jimin. I swear it was nothing beyond that.”Jimi shut the album and place it on the coffee table. He clenched his teeth to keep himself from falling apart.He sprang up, searching for excuse. “I… I- I guess I better go now – thank you for your time. They’re still serving Kobe beef, right?” He laughed weakly. “I haven’t gotten the chance to try them and I wonder how they taste but Taehyung and Jungkook mentioned that it’s like juicy jelly that melts in your mouth– haha… whatever that means but yes, I need to go check it out myself-”“Jimin-” Jin rose to his feet, his eyes wary with regret.Jimin tried for another smile but it wasn’t convincing. He wasn’t going to break down and be responsible for ruining the wedding. So he pleaded, his voice useless and weak, “Please… let me go and check out those beef-”A knock on the door interrupted them. A man whom Jimin recognised as one of the event staff popped in. “Mr Kim, the press would like to take some photos.  Your husband’s waiting at the photo booth.”Jimin seized the chance to escape. He muttered a careless ‘excuse me’ and scrambled for the door, almost knocking into the man on his way out.He broke into a run down the hallway and slammed into something firm. Looking up, he saw Jungkook’s cheery face.“Hey, I haven’t talked to you all night,” Jungkook winked, his face flushed red from probably wine.But the lawyer’s humour disappeared in the next beat. “What’s the matter, Jimin? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”“I-” Jimin faltered.“Is something wrong?” Jungkook grabbed Jimin’s arms, his tone turning serious with concern.“Jungkook…” Jimin was barely able to constrain his emotions and it pained him as the words trembled out of his lips. “Did Taehyung and Jin used to date each other?”Several expressions crossed Jungkook’s face: surprise, then shock and finally righteous rage. “My fucking cousin didn’t tell you. Yes, Taehyung dated Jin but that was a long time ago. It’s all history, Jimin. There must be something you’ve misunderstood.”“Do I look like Jin? Is that why Taehyung picked me?”Jungkook’s jaw slackened in shock which Jimin read as an inability to conjure up excuses. And then he remembered that Jungkook had also lied to him about the alpha’s business trip to Tokyo.Jimin could only beg for an answer. “Am I Jin’s substitute?”“Jimin, this is-”“Yes or no? Don’t lie to me. I have the right to know.”Jungkook’s composure slipped, but he secured his hands on Jimin’s shoulders in a tight grip and enunciated each word calmly, pinning his eyes on his. “I guarantee you, Jimin, that you’re nobody’s substitute. You need to calm down. Let’s go back to your room first and I will get Taehyung.”He pressed a protective hand on the small of Jimin’s back, leading him away from passing guests and into the lift. Once they were back in the room, he had Jimin sat on the couch before pacing about as he made a call.“Fuck…pick up the damn call,” Jungkook cursed under his breath as he hit the redial.Jimin watched him silently, his insides saturating with a giant mess of things he couldn’t describe.  “It’s okay, Jungkook. I will wait for Taehyung to come back.” He sounded so hollowed out, he wondered if the person speaking was himself.Jungkook tossed him an anxious look. “I’m going to find that bastard and bring him here.” But after two strides he hesitated, “No… I better stay with you until he comes back.” He returned to his phone, his thumbs flying on the keypad.Jimin buried his face in his hand, worn-out. “I need some time alone. I will wait here. Can you get out, please?“I’m sending a text to Taehyung.”Jimin dragged an exhausted glance at Jungkook. “Please, Jungkook. I need some time alone. Please.”The lawyer whipped his head towards Jimin, knowing that he was losing him. “I’ll find Taehyung and haul his ass here now.”With a string of urgent curses under his breath, Jungkook pelted out of the door.Alone, Jimin dropped deep into a bottomless hole. He pulled at his hair with both hands and hit his head with the heels of his palms repeatedly, but the blood roaring in his ears wouldn’t tame down.Pushing himself off the couch, he moved about the room like a tornado, flinging things that got in his way.He needed to confirm something.He stormed for the bedroom and flipped open Taehyung’s luggage, hurling its contents onto the large bed. He flung off every stuff of the alpha that wasn’t what he was looking for: his clothes, his toiletries, his gadgets, everything.A desperate scream came out of him when he couldn’t find it. He went back to the alpha’s suitcase and searched the side compartments. His fingers closed on a chain-like object and yanked it out.The familiar silver pendant dangled before him.T&J. The engraved initials on the silver was like a clown mocking Jimin. The cracks in his heart gave way and shattered.T&J.It meant Taehyung & Jin.What was he expecting? Taehyung & Jimin? The pendant had existed way before he’d crossed paths with Taehyung.Stumbling back against the wall, missing pieces clicked into place.It all made sense now – how Taehyung had reacted when Jimin had first touched the necklace; the pained look on the alpha’s face when he’d thrown it out of the window; how grateful he’d been when Jimin had found it back for him; and the sad look on his face as he stood by the window that one afternoon, staring at the necklace, before proposing to Jimin that he wanted them to be the real thing.It had been naïve of Jimin to believe that he was special to Kim Taehyung.Taehyung didn’t love him. He was only a substitute. He wasn’t the alpha’s true north.The room spun around Jimin and he covered his eyes with the crook of his arm to steady himself.
He loves Jin.

Not me.

Not me.

Not me.

Will never be me.
Because it was the only thing and the right thing to do, he scrambled for his own suitcase and threw it open on bed. He gathered his stuff and tossed them inside.This trip was a joke.His relationship with Taehyung was a joke.He, Park Jimin was the joke.Sinking on the edge of the bed, he pulled out his phone and with unstable fingers tore through the flight booking app. He booked the earliest flight he saw and paid no heed to the price when he checked out.The only item that stood out in his vision was the wrapped box he’d prepared as Taehyung’s birthday gift, tucked in a corner of his open suitcase. Another item mocking him. A laugh fizzed out of his throat as he held the box in his hand. As he trembled, the box slipped and dropped onto the carpet and he kicked it under the bed.With his backpack on his back, Jimin wheeled his luggage, almost tripping over the chaotic mess as he made his way out of the room.In the corridor, he cut pass faceless hotel guests. Music floated in from a distance where the wedding party went on, oblivious to his departure. Nobody knew who he was anyway. Who would pay attention to a nobody?He slid into the backseat of the cab as the bellboy loaded his luggage. He told the driver his destination.He remained silent throughout the journey to the airport, ignoring the phone vibrating in his pocket.He didn’t even know how he managed to get to the airport, only that he did get there and it was all that mattered.The joyous mingles and festive buzz among the travellers were a contrast to his grey mood. The lady at the check-in counter marvelled at how lucky he was for securing a ticket three hours before the flight was due to take off, to which he responded with a robotic smile.He was on auto-pilot, aware of what he was doing and yet barely registering his surroundings to the exact detail. He waited in the lounge, followed the stream of passengers to the boarding gate, got onto the plane and settled down in his seat.His trip to LA had ended in less than twelve hours and so was his happy dreams that had crumbled to ashes.His mind was numb.His body was cold.His heart was dead.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Never would Taehyung imagine that the perfect world he’d thought he’d meticulously crafted - for himself, for Jimin, for the both of them - would come crashing down in the next hour.He was deep in conversation with a potential American investor, one of those important people from the wedding guest list. The gentleman was impressed by Taehyung’s achievements and was now heading towards the prospect of a business collaboration.But an invisible weight pressed uncomfortably on Taehyung’s shoulders as Jungkook entered his vision, barrelling towards him from across the ballroom with uncharacteristic fury on his face.In that instance, Taehyung sensed something amiss, for he’d never seen that look on his cousin’s face. It was as if Jungkook was blazing towards him with vengeance and a knife behind him.“You better get your damn ass to the room now,” Jungkook ordered, loud enough for nearby heads to turn.The gentleman who Taehyung was talking to turned around and his shoulders flinched slightly at that murderous glare on Jungkook’s face. It even threw Taehyung off for a heartbeat as his cousin had never hurled vulgarities in the presence of clients and potential clients.“Is something wrong?” Taehyung asked, but he was already putting his glass down and ready to go.“You know it.” Jungkook gritted out.Jimin. It was the first name that raced into Taehyung’s mind like a knee-jerk reaction.“Has something happened to Jimin?” Taehyung’s heart picked up speed as the question flew out of his mouth.“It will if you continue grinding your ass here.” Jungkook grabbed him by his lapels.Taehyung pushed him back, civil but firm. He turned to the gentleman he’d been speaking to before his cousin’s interruption. “I apologise for the intrusion, Mr. Evans,” Taehyung said to the man who was clearly uncomfortable to be caught in between this hostility. “It seems like there are matters requiring my immediate attention. I shall touch base with you again via e-mail.”Without waiting for a reply, he strode for the doors with Jungkook as the uneasiness inside him spread.“Is Jimin all right?” Taehyung demanded while they were steps into the lobby.“I should be the one asking you,” Jungkook spat, jabbing at the lift button. Even as they waited, he paced around, running his hands through his hair. “I bumped into him earlier. He looked pale and the first thing he asked was whether you and Jin had a past and if he is Jin’s substitute.” He pinned Taehyung with a deadly look. “What the fuck, Taehyung. Where did he get this dumb idea? Didn’t he know that you and Jin had been together before?”Everything came flopping back into Taehyung’s consciousness, a revisiting nightmare.  Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.The lobby was teeming with guests returning from their days’ out along with a couple others whom Taehyung recognised from the wedding party. It was no use waiting.He darted for the emergency exit. As he sprinted up the flights of stairs with Jungkook close on his tail, the only thing that registered in his mind was how the bloody hell had he not told Jimin about his past. The past had bothered Taehyung, devoured an integral part of him that for years his identify had been lost because of it.Taehyung’d hated every bit of his past, his relationship with Jin and all.But all that had changed now. Since getting back with Jimin and falling in love all over again, it had become clear as day to him that none of his past held any concern to him.Taehyung’s lungs burned as his leather shoes pounded on the carpeted flooring down the corridor to his suite. He desperately needed to explain before all hell broke loose.He’d invested all of himself into this and so had Jimin. He had become a new person because of Jimin, so much so that his present and future were all that he held dear to. Not his past. He couldn’t let it all fall down to nothingness because of his folly.But hell had already unleashed itself as Taehyung burst into his suite. He aimed for the bedroom directly and was welcomed with an unholy mess as though a crazy lunatic had just ransacked the place.Clothes and stuff were thrown and strewn everywhere. His empty luggage was thrown open on the floor. At a corner, the tall nightlight had been toppled over, blocking the entrance to the bathroom. The bedroom was empty of his lover’s presence. And so was the bathroom and the balcony. He stormed back into the living room again, bumping shoulders with Jungkook.Jungkook pulled him back, his anxious eyes searching. “Is he not here?’The aching and panic were starting to crush Taehyung. He wrenched his phone out and thumped on the call button.The line went to voice mail.“I need to find him.” Taehyung pelted for the door just as Namjoon and Jin appeared at the threshold.“Is everything okay with Jimin?” A flustered Jin asked as his gaze jumped between Taehyung and Jungkook.“What did you tell him?” Taehyung questioned.Jin averted his eyes guiltily and the pool of dread in Taehyung’s stomach grew.Namjoon, ever the calm one even in a crisis, stepped in.  He announced like he was making a news report, annoying the hell out of Taehyung. “I believe there was some misunderstanding. Jin had a talk with Jimin and something happened.”Taehyung’s fists clenched at his sides. “Go on.”Jin hastily recounted his conversation with Jimin before Taehyung could tear himself away and out of the room.“…I didn’t know Jimin wasn’t aware that we’d been together, Taehyung.” Jin sounded regretful, his eyes misted with tears. “He seemed to have misunderstood that you left him in Seoul to come and meet us earlier. I told him you only met us last week for the snowboarding trip.”“You what!” Jungkook whirled on Taehyung as he exploded.  “What happened to the important businesses you were taking care of?”“It concluded earlier than I’d expected and I took an earlier flight to LA,” Taehyung said, his control slipping. “I arrived late last week – not the entire week. I planned to tell Jimin everything here.” His reasoning which had seemed so logical moments ago now sounded like a tardy excuse.“I’m sorry,” Jin breathed. “I wanted to explain to Jimin that our snowboarding trip was only for two nights and not the entirety of last week, but he looked so shocked and I couldn’t get any words in him and-” His words broke down, consumed by guilt. Namjoon placed a comforting hand on his arm.“Fuck.” Taehyung shut his eyes and tried not to picture the worst.“You Kim brothers.” Jungkook jabbed his finger furiously in the air, seething as though their names were filth. “It doesn’t fucking matter whether it’s two nights or a week. You were all having the times of your life here and left Jimin unaware.” He fired a glare at Taehyung. “Especially you. You took him for a fool.”“I did not.” Taehyung hit back.Namjoon took control of the situation and stepped in between the both of them before fists could connect. “No one would have expected this to happened. The important thing now is to find Jimin and clear up this understanding. We’ll split the search. Jin and I will ask the security and we will cover the common corridors. Taehyung and Jungkook, you will look into the courtyards, the gardens and lounge.”“And Taehyung,” Namjoon’s voice turned grave as he put a firm hand on Taehyung’s shoulder. “Keep calling Jimin until he picks up. The priority now is to find Jimin. We don’t want to alarm Dad and Mom.” They searched high and low for god-knows-how-long. Taehyung didn’t care that he was the lunatic shouting his lover’s name as he pushed through the crowds of guests for signs of Jimin.But there was no Jimin. No sign of the boy in the creamed coloured tuxedo and smiling face.When Taehyung next returned to the room in hopes that Jimin would be back, only disappointment greeted him. His heart sank further. He tripped his way into the bedroom, planting himself in the middle of the mess and staring at his phone which had been put on redial on Jimin’s line. Still no answer.Taehyung now worried if something bad could have happened to the boy. He was about to call for the police when something odd about the room hit him. He casted his eyes around the area. The oddity which had previously been overlooked became evident now.Jimin’s luggage was gone. And so were his belongings.The mess in the room were made up of Taehyung’s clothes and stuff. There was nothing of Jimin’s.Taehyung fumbled for his phone again, finally noticing a new text that had been sitting in his inbox for the past hour. The text was a message from the bank, alerting him to a new transaction which’d been made using his credit card for a plane ticket.A wave of shock blasted him as he struggled to comprehend what was happening.Jimin had left.He could hear Jungkook shouting as he stomped back into the suite, but his brain wasn’t processing what his cousin was saying. Nothing registered. Except the fact that Jimin was gone.Jimin was gone.Gone. Gone. Gone.The knowledge ripped through Taehyung, warping his senses and kicking him in the head. The phone slipped out of his hand as his knees hit the floor. A tormented growl tore out of him.“Are you listening?” Jungkook hollered. Taehyung felt himself being yanked up by his lapels. His cousin shook him violently. “Did you manage to get hold of Jimin?”His stony gaze met Jungkook. “He’s gone.”Fear clouded Jungkook’s eyes as his jaw went slack. “What do you mean by he’s gone?”“He’s bought a ticket and left LA. His luggage is not here.”The hands clutching him let go and Taehyung dropped onto the bed. Sitting there, he slapped his face into his hands. The only sound that was audible to him now was his harsh breathing.“He’s left,” he whispered as that revolting emotion feasted on him like venom.He’d never thought that Jimin would leave him like that.His biggest fear roared to life. Jimin had disappeared. He’d left him. No note, no goodbye. Nothing.In that depressing moment, another realisation rammed right into Taehyung’s gut - that Jimin wasn’t one to pick fights. The boy would simply walk away from any possibility of a confrontation if it defeated him enough.“How many fucking times have I told you to tell Jimin the truth. But you fucking did not!” Jungkook’s voice split the air as Taehyung was being yanked up again by his massive strength.“He’s left.” Taehyung shrugged his shoulders.“Get a fucking plane ticket now. Get him back!”Taehyung shrugged his shoulders again. “He’s gone.”Jungkook lunged first. The first punch landed on Taehyung’s lips, splitting it before it scraped violently against his jaw. The impact sent the alpha toppling back a few steps, knocking over a table lamp.“This is for Jimin,” Jungkook snarled. “He made a mistake giving you a chance. He deserves better. If you’re not getting him back, I will.”It wasn’t the metallic taste of blood on Taehyung’s lips that jerked him back to his senses, but the challenge in Jungkook’s statement.With his hands in hard fists, Taehyung growled and pummelled forward. He headbutted Jungkook in his stomach, slamming him against the wall. The impact knocked the air out of Jungkook and he smashed his elbow down onto Taehyung’s back.“You’re the worst person I know.” Jungkook thundered.They fought and crashed out of the door into the hallway, startling passing guests. Taehyung lose track of their motions, of their surroundings. Jungkook was raining furious punches on his body and his back, and he returned the favour with equal vehemence.Vases shattered, people screamed and scampered out of their way. Somehow, they landed back into the ballroom, still hard at each other.“Stop them! Stop them!” Someone yelled.Taehyung thought he heard his Mom shrieking from a distance ahead. His fuzzy vision caught the livid look on his Dad’s face as though the old man was about to suffer a stroke.“This is for your stupidity.” Jungkook smacked Taehyung with his fist, this time in the eye. The back of his eyes singed in pain and he launched a kick to his cousin’s ribs.At some point Namjoon and Jin intervened, attempted to tear them apart.But Taehyung’s rage knew no limits. And so was his pain.His body endured Jungkook’s punishing blows while he hit back with his.Until a larger force pried them apart. The tight slap that landed on Taehyung’s face stunned him to stillness. He found himself staring at Jin.“You need to stop!” Jin yelled, his face as red as his raised palm that had just slapped him. “Fighting is not going to solve anything!”Jungkook broke out of Namjoon’s restraining arms, charging at Jin. He punched the elder Kim on his cheek. “Don’t you dare hit Tae, you idiot!”“The both of you, stop!” Namjoon hollered. He shoved a shocked Jin behind him in a protective stance. “I’m telling you, no more fists and name calling. This is not what we are raised for.”Taehyung and Jungkook eyed each other, their chest labouring with heavy breathes. They took in each other’s bruised face, dishevelled hair and tattered suits.Jungkook wiped blood from his lips with the back of his hand, his eyes hard on Namjoon and Jin. “I’ve always detested these two for using the big brother card to lord over us. It’s easy for them to talk when they’re not the ones caught in this whirlwind.”Sharing Jungkook’s sentiments, Taehyung rolled his shoulders, ignoring his muscles screaming in pain. “We probably won’t get another chance after tonight.”They exchanged one final look before hurling themselves towards Namjoon and Jin.The whole world just became his enemy.But nothing mattered to Taehyung anymore.** Hours crawled by on the plane. Jimin’d got himself a window seat in the economy class cabin and made himself as small as possible by sinking low in his chair. Somewhere between waiting for his flight and boarding, he’d changed out of his tux into a T-shit and a pair of sweater pants, draped a wool jacket around himself and a beanie over his head. He couldn’t remember what he did to the tux. Probably left it in a pile in the airport toilet or dumped it into a dustbin on his way to board the flight.Throughout the journey, Jimin kept his eyes shut and his face hidden beneath the collar of his jacket, ignoring the lovey-dovey couple seated next to him.But the world was an unforgiving place and wouldn’t leave you alone. The more you wanted to be unnoticed, the more someone would notice you. The flight attendant paused by his row thrice to ask if everything was alright and if he needed anything, possibly because he didn’t touch his food, had remained stationery in the same position like a statue. He shook his head and turned towards the window.No food or drink was going to right his world.The journey droned on in a heavy daze. He vaguely remembered disembarking from the plane after it’d touched down at Incheon airport. His legs that didn’t felt like his carried him along with the moving crowd. He stood by the baggage belt for his luggage, missed it the first time as it passed him by and waited for it to make another round, before heaving if off the belt.  As he exited through the arrival doors, luggage in tow, a huge shining board above the sea of waiting people grabbed his attention. The flashy neon sign was so glaring that even a comatose man would not miss it.‘My Best Friend Chimmy’, was the sign that Hoseok was holding above his head as his anxious eyes searched among the arriving passengers.When Jimin locked eyes with him, relief swept through his friend’s face. Even Yoongi was here, wearing an expression on his face that was more solemn than usual. Their eyes never left him as they started forward, as though they were afraid of losing him if they looked away for even a second.For the first time since leaving LA, Jimin opened his mouth to speak. “Hobi? Yoongi?”“You made it home.” Hoseok creased his brows, his red-rimmed eyes a clear sign that he’d been crying.“Why are you here? How did you know that I was coming back?” Jimin asked, his voice sounding weak as they came out of his parched throat.The two pairs of eyes continued watching him with worry.When neither of them answered his question, Jimin dropped his head and it was then did he notice that the couple were sporting identical T-shirts, with Song Joongki’s smiling face printed on the front of each.He jerked his head up confusedly as panic set in. “The fan meet… isn’t it today? What are you doing here? You shouldn’t be here. You should be at the fan meet. You should be-”“That’s not important.” Hoseok said, thrusting the board to Yoongi without taking his eyes off Jimin. With a grim face, his friend stepped forward and yanked him into a fierce hug.“No, no-” Jimin fumbled, shaking his head. “You should be at the fan meet. I ruined your date. I-I-”At the familiarity of his friend’s warmth, his emotional dam finally burst and he broke down into tears.Hoseok gave firm, comforting rubs on Jimin’s back. He sounded strangled as he said, “Please, Chimmy. Don’t think about other stuff. Just cry it out. I’m here. I’m here.”The stupid tears wouldn’t stop. They were soaking Hoseok’s shirt. Jimin’s lungs convulsed as he clenched onto Hoseok’s arms and wept. “I’m sorry I ruined your day. I’m sorry-I-I’m so useless-I’m sorry-”“Don’t say that,” Hoseok hushed.Yoongi said, “You got everyone worried, disappearing like that.”Jimin pulled away from Hoseok.  He rubbed his eyes vigorously with the heels of his palms, but it was a futile attempt at blocking the tears. “I couldn’t take it… I’m sorry-”Yoongi asked, soft with worry. “What happened? Why did you leave without a word? They ransacked the place looking for you. Jungkook beat the crap out of Taehyung, and Taehyung, he-”At the mention of the alpha’s name, Hoseok slashed incensed eyes at Yoongi.Stabbing his finger on Yoongi’s chest, he lashed out, his fury uncontained. “Will you just shut up and keep quiet like you’ve always been! Just shut up!  Do you think this is the right time to say these to him? Your boss better has a damn good explanation when he’s back! Or else I’m sending an army to rip out his guts!”Hoseok’s outburst garnered stares from people nearby.“No… don’t fight, please… don’t fight because of me.” Jimin wept and Hoseok’s arms were around him again.A moment later Yoongi held out his phone, clearly at his wits end. “Taehyung’s on the line. He wants to talk to you.”But Jimin backed away, knocking into a couple who were passing by. Shaking his head, his lips quivered. “No… I-I can’t talk to him. No..”“Let me.” Hoseok snatched the phone away. Overwhelmed by the cascading emotions as they tumbled free, Jimin buried his eyes in the bent of his elbow as fresh tears emerged. He could barely take in what Hoseok was yelling, only that his words harboured a kind of wrath he didn’t knew his friend was capable of.In the end, an airport staff interrupted them, concerned that their ruckus was disturbing the peace. In a daze Jimin let himself be escorted out, with Hoseok’s arm around him like a shield and Yoongi taking care of his luggage.Even as Yoongi drove them back to their apartment, Jimin couldn’t stop crying but this time, tears just rolled down quietly as he looked out the window.Hoseok’s hand held his, giving tight squeezes, as though telling him that everything was going to be okay.But it wasn’t. Pizza was ordered for dinner but Jimin’s appetite had gone into hibernation. The misery that clogged his throat made chewing and swallowing difficult. After a few bites, he sprang up and dashed for the bathroom with barely seconds to spare before throwing up into the toilet with Hoseok hovering behind him.After Jimin’d washed up and came out of the bathroom, Hoseok led him back into his room. They sat on the bed, Jimin hugging his knees tightly as he took the time he needed.Taking a deep breath to stifle his tears, he told his friend everything that had happened: his conversation with Jin, Taehyung’s lie about his business trip, Jin’s childhood photos that reminded him on how he’d used to look like, Taehyung’s past with Jin; and finally, his conclusion that the alpha didn’t love him at all.“I’m just a substitute.” Jimin repeated again to remind himself of the cruel reality but it only tortured him further.Hoseok listened on quietly. His usual display of derision and verbal insults on shitty guys were not in action tonight. It was as though some force had sucked him dry of all energy to curse and all he could do was to stay by Jimin’s side and comfort him.Hoseok flung his arms around him. “Chimmy, I’m terribly sorry. I wish I knew what to do now. You shouldn’t have to endure this.”With that, the tough exterior that Hoseok had been putting up cracked and he cried along with Jimin.When Jimin was able to settle himself again, he asked, “How did you and Yoongi know what flight I was on?”Hoseok sighed. “You booked the ticket using Tae- that asshole’s credit card and he received a notification from the bank. From the timing, your flight was the last one flying from LA to Seoul. We headed straight to the airport as soon as Yoongi received the news, but it was utter chaos on the Kim’s side and we couldn’t get a proper account as to what had happened. We only knew that Tae- argh -that asshole is trying to get a flight back asap, but all flights have been cancelled because of an impending snowstorm. Your flight was one of the last ones that took off.”Jimin’s stomach turned queasy thinking of the possible mess he might have left behind, but he was also too worn-out.  “I’m sorry, I caused everyone so much trouble and inconvenienced you and Yoon-.”“No, Chimmy. I don’t want to hear another word of sorry from you.” Hoseok frowned and Jimin saw silent anger in his eyes. “Stop blaming everything on yourself. I don’t find this an inconvenience at all and I only want the best for you. You would have done the same thing if it were me.”Jimin snivelled, blowing his nose into a tissue. “I don’t think so. You wouldn’t have run away like me.”“I would have murdered that asshole and make it look like an accident,” Hoseok finished, earning a small choke of laughter from Jimin.“Seriously, Chimmy.” Hoseok patted his knee. “What I wanted to say is that you would have been there for me if I need you too.”Before Jimin could argue, he took the tiny saucer with two pain killers and a glass of water from the bedside. “Take these and sleep.”Keeping quiet, Jimin did as he was told.It was strange to Jimin how his emotions came and went like tides. One minute he thought he’d calmed down but in the next moment, that wretched feeling came back and pushed him to tears.That night, Jimin held onto Hoseok’s hand as he fell asleep in fitful sobs. He was on the brink of collapse, wanted nothing more than to sleep but each time he closed his eyes, all he could see was Taehyung.Jimin had learnt something new.That some hearts were made of glass. His had shattered and he wondered if he could ever piece it back.* When Jimin opened his eyes the next morning, his head was still aching from the effects of jetlag and an upset sleep schedule. His eyes were puffy-red and sore from all crying.And his heart... oh, his heart.He zombie-walked to the kitchen and distantly registered Hoseok setting up breakfast.His friend camouflaged his worry with a smile, but it was too late for Jimin not to notice.“Morning, Chimmy,” Hoseok said with more enthusiasm than it should normally be. “I’m making French toast with honey. They should be ready soon.”Jimin stared blankly about the place. “Where’s Yoongi?” He’d vaguely remembered about the secretary, only that despite Hoseok ignoring him, he’d stayed with them and took the couch in the living room.Hoseok sliced the bread into halves before putting them on the pan. He sounded distantly cold as he said, “He’s gone out to get milk. Or at least that’s what he said.”Guilt gnawed at Jimin. “Hobi ah… please don’t be mad at Yoongi. I don’t think he knows anything about it.” And in the unlikely event that he did, he was only taking instructions from Taehyung.“Chimmy.” Exasperated, Hoseok powered off the electric stove and came over to him.  “You need to stop thinking about other people.”But Jimin insisted. “Promise me, Hobi, that you’ll not let what happened with me affect your relationship with Yoongi. I won’t forgive myself if this happens.”The staring contest between the two friends that lasted for a minute ended when Jimin covered his face with his hands and sank to the floor, upset and mortified.Hoseok knelt down and his arms came around Jimin, holding him together as he crumbled in tears.Jimin sobbed. “I don’t know what else I can do now. I’m at my wits end but I know that I don’t want to wake up like this every day.” The tears seeped again and he was starting to hate himself.When he next looked up, Hoseok was regarding him with an expression that was torn between loyalty and reason.After a pause, Hoseok added quietly, “Chimmy ah, I still think that asshole is an asshole and I’ll support any decision you make…” he hesitated, biting his lips as he considered his choice of words. “… but have you considered thrashing things out with him? That maybe this could be some mix-up because that asshole’s brain was lodged inside his anus.”Jimin shook his head wildly, scrubbing the tears away. The prospect of a face-to-face confrontation with Taehyung crippled him with fear. “I won’t be able to take it if he admits that I’m only a replacement or worst, lies to me in my face.”Hoseok watched him silently.Jimin’s vision were glassy with tears and his words came out quiet and broken. “He has never told me before that he loves me.”Hoseok’s mouth opened a fraction at the revelation. His temper flared. “Damn, I hate him. I hate him. He’s a joke.”Jimin drew in a weary breath, held it longer before releasing it. “I’m tired, Hobi. I’m tired of this place. I… I want to go back to Busan.”“Let’s go back together.” There was no hesitation in Hoseok’s response.“No, Hobi, you stay here. Stay here in Seoul with Yoongi. You shouldn’t change your life because me.”“We’re best friends. BFFs.”Jimin took Hoseok’s fisted hand and gently uncurled his fingers. “You’re my best friend, Hobi. Since young, you’ve always been looking out for me and putting my interests above yours. I wouldn’t have made it so far without you by my side. I’m forever grateful to you for that.”“Don’t say that.” Hoseok’s voice wavered. “You were the only one who befriended me when every kid in the neighbourhood ran away because they thought I was too fierce.”“And that’s what makes you the best, Hobi. You are fierce– fiercely protective and loyal. Without you, there wouldn’t be me. But I hope you know that there are certain things even best friends can’t do together.”“What are you getting at?”“Like healing a broken heart,” Jimin muttered and fought to retain his calm. “You shouldn’t blame yourself for my misfortune or believe that you have to inflict yourself with the same misery to show your solidarity with me. That’s not what friends are for. I made a personal decision to be with Taehyung. I fell in love with him and I fell hard, and it’s my own doing. Nobody can take the fall for me except myself. I need to do this myself. I need to pick myself up again before I can move on.”“What can I do to help you?” Hoseok asked, looking sad and resigned.Jimin took his friend’s hand in his. He tried to said as brightly as he could, “Promise me that you will continue to do what you’ve been doing and take me out of the equation when it comes to your happiness. Follow your heart and go where it takes you.”Despite the struggle in his composure, Hoseok gave in. “Promise me you will keep in touch. Call me everyday when you are in Busan.”“I will.”“But there’s one thing I can’t give you my word for,” Hoseok said, wrinkling his nose.“What’s that?”“That I wouldn’t murder that asshole if I see him again. He’s such a shitty alpha. The shittiest of the shitty shit kind.”Jimin laughed between tears. “I hope the next alpha that comes along won’t make me cry so much. My lungs can’t take it.” **The following morning, before the first break of light, Jimin was at the station for the first train to Busan. At the entrance, he said his goodbyes and hugged a teary Hoseok as Yoongi unloaded his luggage.Jimin promised Hoseok that he would keep in touch every day. He held himself together like clinging onto a thin rope to keep himself from falling apart.As they hugged, Jimin said over his friend’s shoulder, “I will be fine in no time.”“Chimmy…” Hoseok clamped him mouth tightly.Jimin turned to Yoongi and taking the secretary by surprise, he wrapped his arms around his waist. “Thanks for everything, Yoongi. Please take care of Hobi.”Stepping back, Jimin found a tiny warmth gleaming in the secretary’s eyes.In an awkward gesture, Yoongi patted the beanie wrapped around Jimin’s head. “Call us if you need anything.” His gaze dithered as though he was debating something with himself and seconds later added, “I would’ve warned Taehyung if I’ve known what he was doing.”It didn’t matter to Jimin anymore, but he knew that it mattered a lot to Yoongi - that he believed him. “I believe you.” Jimin smiled. “I trust that Hobi thinks the same.”His friend made a soft noise of agreement, sniffing on his tears.Jimin looked between the both of them. “I will send you guys a carton of strawberries for Christmas.” As the train set off for its destination, Jimin stared out the window, at the gradually growing rays of light piercing out from the skies and brightening the world.Even as he appeared calm in his seat by the window, several thoughts were running through his mind.Another painful fact which had been lurking in the depths of his consciousness had broken into the surface when he’d woke up this morning. All he had: his job, the apartment he was staying in and his worries about his debts were all taken care of by Taehyung. The alpha had made Jimin trust him so much that now as he looked back, he hadn’t really achieved anything for himself. Taehyung played a part in every aspect of his life, took care of his needs.But things were going to be different from now on. He was on his own.He still had debts to pay, his parents’ strawberry farm to redeem. As tired and battered as he was, he still had to take care of bread and butter. But he would worry about them later. For now, he needed a break.Taking a deep breath to steady himself, he reclined his seat and shut his eyes.
Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, it’s not the end.
 Three hours later, the train arrived at Busan. Unlike the constant buzz and hustle of Seoul, Busan carried a laid-back and friendlier vibe. As Jimin pulled his luggage and cut through the relatively quiet street to the bus terminal, it made him realised that his hometown offered a type of calm that Seoul couldn’t give him.While waiting for the bus, he bought an egg sandwich and a bottle of hot tea from the vending machines. He sat on one of the wooden benches and tucked in his breakfast, rubbing his gloved hands against the warm bottle to gather some warmth against the winter air.It was his first proper meal since returning to Korea, for he’d finished them all.Then he boarded the bus that would take him to the suburbs where his parents’ strawberry farm and house – his real home – were.His parents were no doubt waiting for him. He’d phoned them last afternoon to tell them he was coming back and despite his efforts to put up a cheery front, he knew from his mother’s voice that she could sense something amiss. But ever the thoughtful and empathetic soul, her mother chose not to press for details, trusting that his son was sensible enough and counting on Hoseok to take care of him in the meantime. Instead, her mother had said to Jimin, her voice smiling warmly over the phone, that she would cook his favourite dishes and his father would change the sheets in his room for his return.As the bus journeyed farther from the city, the crammed buildings and city streets disappeared, giving way to a quieter, calmer view of the suburbs. Jimin passed through long winding roads lined by snow-covered trees and low houses scattered between large acres of plain paddy fields filled with snow.Not far ahead, he spotted his parents’ house and the strawberry greenhouse adjacent to it.It wasn’t long before he was walking on the familiar steps, dragging his luggage through the snowy paths. The surroundings were serenely quiet, filling him with a sense of peace.He deposited his luggage on the steps of the front porch before his house and made his way to the strawberry greenhouse beside the white field. In winter, his parents worked in the greenhouse instead of the field. The glass doors were slightly ajar. Inside, he found two familiar figures among the rows of strawberry bushes, picking their fruits.He walked in, his boots padding on the earthy ground as he made his way to his parents. Sensing his arrival, they stopped what they were doing and looked up.It was that first touch of pleasant surprise on his parents’ faces, followed by the wide welcoming smiles that undid Jimin again.“Omma... Appa...” That acidic rush of tears hit his nose and before he could control himself, tears were spilling down his cheeks.His mother, who was nearer called out his pet name and run-walked towards him, her arms opened wide. Despite the smile wrinkling her eyes, Jimin could see the worry in them. She gathered Jimin into her embrace. “Ah, my dear Chimmy is finally home,” she pressed a kiss on her son’s forehead and brushed his tears away. “Omma and Appa have been thinking about you.”Jimin’s mother was shorter than him and he had to bend himself lower to hug her back. But in that moment, she felt larger and stronger than him.“I’m sorry...” Jimin trembled as he buried his head in his mother’s shoulder, clenching onto her wool jacket. “It’s just that things have been a little overwhelming recently. I missed you and Appa.”His mother whispered, her voice steady and kind like the hand that stroked his back. “The world out there is full of adventures and promises. Sometimes we laugh and sometimes we fall. It’s all right, dear. One thing at a time.”“Ho Ho ho, look who we have here. Our dearest Chimmy!” It was his father’s trademark belly-laugh, but filled with additional love and concern. Jimin felt a bigger pair of arms came over him and his mother as his father’s height shadowed them.“Appa…” Jimin choked out, ashamed to look up for he was covered in tears. “I miss you too.”Patting his head, his father said, “Omma has cooked all your favourite dishes. Kimchi jjigae, bugo gook, tong dak, pa jun… Appa’s tummy is blessed because of you.”The faint, sawdust scent of cigarette from his father added another layer of warm to Jimin’s senses. In the past, Jimin would have nagged at his father to quit smoking but right now, that scent gave him solace and compassion.He was home. The knot tugging at his chest loosened, as was the stress that had been devastating him since coming back to Korea.Jimin remained sandwiched between his parents, weeping silently. He stayed there, like a little boy seeking shelter in his parents’ protection.He kept hugging his parents until he felt brave again.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

For the entire week, Jimin did nothing except eat.He kept his belly full with his mother’s homecooked dishes and desserts. They were a source of heavenly comfort, giving him a temporary escape from the pain that was tormenting him.Other than the kitchen, he spent the majority of his days sitting on bed and staring out of the window. Since he’d left most of his art supplies in his studio at Taehyung’s house, he would sketch in his book using the old stationery he’d dug up from his drawer. Quiet was what he needed and he sought tranquil by losing himself in his sketches. If he could have his way, he would like to be an art teacher.He’d shut himself from the outside world, locked his phone away in the drawer. His only connection to Seoul was Hoseok, with whom he’d check in once a day, usually in the evenings using the landline.Jimin’s parents, to his immense relief, left him alone most of the time. Sometimes, they would take turns to knock on his bedroom door and pop their heads in. Their expressions looked as if they had something to say, but were hesitating and would end up talking to him about trivial stuff. Jimin tried his best to keep them from worrying, yet his courage had a limit. However, he made it a point to sit with them at the dining table every evening, listening to their musings about the strawberry farm and daily affairs.It lessened his parents’ worries to see that he was eating well. Hence, he ate more than he normally would regardless of his emotion well-being.Before Jimin knew it, Christmas had arrived.At his mother’s insistence, he dressed up and dragged himself out of the house for a potluck dinner at the community centre organised by the town council. In the company of people, Jimin ate and drank, smiled and chatted with different faces on a wide range of topics.Over the past months, he’d become good at smiling and putting on a jolly front. The older folks eyed him with deep appreciation and a woman in her mid-forties who ran a tea shop wanted to introduce him to her son.“Thank you, ahjumma.” Jimin said to the woman, putting on the sincerest smile he could manage. “I’m fine by myself right now. I’m sure there will be many others who are interested in your remarkable son.”Appraising Jimin with an approving eyes, the woman asked, “Why, boy? Are you seeing someone now, or is there a person you have in mind?”No and Yes. A needle-like pain pricked at Jimin’s chest.He kept his voice light to match the smile on his face. “I’m not seeing anyone at the moment. It’s just that I’m still young and like to focus on other stuff.”The woman shook her head in a disagreeing manner, but she reached out for the biggest drumstick on the round table and put it on Jimin’s plate. She said with a sigh, “Young people these days are full of the same excuses. You are just like my Eunwoo. He’s always pushing settling down to the back of his mind because he thinks that time is on his side. But you know what? Time waits for no one.”Jimin took a swallow of his fruit punch, agreeing with the woman. “Indeed, time passes in an eyeblink before we know it.” Like how four months had gone by since he’d known Taehyung, and the sweet moments he’d shared with the alpha had ended as quick as meteorites falling from the sky.“Anyway,-” The woman’s optimism brought Jimin back to the world . “-if you’re interested to meet my Eunwoo, let your Omma know yah. We have each other’s numbers. I can arrange a meeting for you and my son. My gut feeling tells me the both of you will make an ideal pair.”Jimin nodded politely. “Thank you, ahjumma. I’ll keep that in mind.”Right after the conversation ended, the festive atmosphere and the laughter of people around him magnified his loneliness. He watched his parents mingling with some old friends at the other tables and was comforted that they were having a pleasant time. Unable to bear with the celebratory noises any longer, Jimin excused himself and left the venue earlier.He trudged through the frosty snow on his way to the bus stop, his gloved hands stuffed in his pockets to keep the cold at bay. His thoughts spiralled and the Christmas carols drifting out of the row of shophouses only pushed him farther into loneliness. An unbearable sadness overpowered him and before he could control, warm tears were streaming down his cold cheeks. He’d been calmer since returning to Busan and was convinced that he’d made the right decision to come home.But despite his hardest efforts, he was still broken inside.He was still grieving for his heartbreak.He was far from healing. The next morning, Jimin woke up later than usual.As he opened his eyes and stared at his bedroom ceiling, the realisation that an alpha like Taehyung would never fall for someone as ordinary as him kicked him into the pits of sorrow. He dragged the pillow over his face and let the tears fall, making no sound as he cried.Why couldn’t Taehyung love him back? Why?All those moments they’d shared, all those hugs and kisses, laughter and tears. Had they all been for nothing? When Taehyung’d made love to him and whispered tender words of love into his ears, was Jin the person he saw? Why wasn’t he special enough to warrant the alpha’s love? He only wanted to love someone and be loved back. Was it too greedy to ask of that?Jimin sat up in bed, torn apart by the failure he felt for himself and his love.Yet for the first time since his heartbreak, something else tugged at his chest. A stronger, more primitive emotion.He felt anger.He wasn’t a substitute. He wasn’t anyone’s second best.He was a person. Capable of loving another with all his heart.And he deserved that same kind of love.If Kim Taehyung couldn’t give him that, someone else would.So what if the alpha didn’t love him back? It wasn’t the end of the world.
With or without Kim Taehyung, life goes on.
Swiping the tears away from his cheeks, he got out of bed and stormed for the bathroom.He brushed his teeth, washed his face and got under the shower, letting the hot water wash away the remaining traces of his fatigue.That ball of restlessness didn’t subside, only grew bigger inside him as he yanked open his dresser and changed into fresh clothes.The country boy in the mirror stared back at him. Jimin took in his plain white sweater and wool pants with red blossom prints. His clothes were old, bought off a flea market a few years ago, but they still fitted his body and were comfortable to wear.He was once again that Park Jimin, that boy who’d spent his childhood and early years in Busan before setting off for Seoul with dreams to fulfil. Now he’d left behind those dreams and the new life he’d crafted.His eyes glazed back with determination. They were swollen and puffed from tears, but he’d stopped crying. He would pull himself out of this misery.  Granted, he was still hurting as fuck.Granted, he wasn’t going to be okay anytime soon.He would likely cry to sleep again tonight.But he was going to try harder. He would climb out of this miserable hole, no matter how long it was going to take.His blood coursed with a need for action.In the kitchen, Jimin warmed up the seafood pancakes which his mother had left for him and made himself a cup of hot chocolate.After he was done with breakfast and washing the dishes, he shrugged into his wool jacket and slipped into his snow boots. He unlocked the front door to a gust of chilly air numbing his face.Locking the door, he turned and started for the greenhouse.The moment he entered, his mother smiled at him from the table at a corner where she sat, packing strawberries into small plastic boxes.“Appa has gone to town for errands,” she said.Jimin smiled back. “Let me help you, Omma.”His mother’s eyes lit up.Jimin sat down on the wooden bench across from his mother, surrounded by big baskets of harvested strawberries. He took a small box from the pile and started to put strawberries inside, arranging them in tiny neat rows.He set himself to work, abandoning his usual routine of holing up in his room.*** The silence in the house was absolute.Before, when Taehyung had still been living alone, the house was merely quiet. Now, that silence was lifeless, a depressing grey that corroded the world of colours.Taehyung had been cooping himself up in his study where he worked and slept on the couch. It was hard to sleep in his bedroom because the cold, empty space beside him only reminded him of Jimin.When his work had nothing else to offer, he would wander through the house with no aim in mind. Often, he found himself walking into the kitchen for the familiar clink and clatter of pots and pans, the pitter-patter of Jimin’s fluffy slippers as he milled about before the stove, the soft thudding of chopping vegetables and for any other sound that would remind him of Jimin. But each time he was greeted with disappointment.Like any other area in the house, Jimin’s absence amplified no matter where Taehyung went.Despite that, Taehyung had been staying at home since his return from LA a week ago. A snowstorm had delayed his flight by two days and by the time he set foot in Seoul, everything had changed, yelling at him that it was too late.He’d called Jimin; he didn’t pick up.He’d texted him; he didn’t reply.There was no indication that Jimin wanted to talk to him.  The boy had shut the door on him and it made Taehyung feel as if someone had cracked his heart into pieces with a pickaxe.The final nail to the coffin had been Jimin’s resignation letter and the apartment keys that Yoongi had hand-delivered to him when he’d popped by a few days ago. The secretary’s trademark stony expression had revealed nothing about his thoughts, but the disapproval in his eyes spoke volumes.Hoseok and Jimin had moved out of the apartment which Taehyung’d prepared for them. Along with Jimin’s resignation letter was a printed report of his handover list, containing details of ongoing projects he’d been doing for V Inc to ensure a smooth handover to his successor. Despite himself, Taehyung mused at the fact that only Jimin would bother with such a considerate move. Anyone working for a man who had broken his heart would simply stage a sabotage.The only thing that saved Taehyung from total madness was the knowledge that at the very least, Jimin had his best friend. He knew that Hoseok would be his shelter during this trying period. Had they found a new place to live? Was Jimin eating well? Did he miss him? Taehyung often wondered.But these were questions he had no right to demand answers for.Taehyung missed him, so much so that his desolation stretched deeper.He wasn’t ready to move on, but at the same time he was too ashamed, even afraid to look for Jimin. Regardless of his good intentions, he shouldn’t have kept things from the boy. He should have told him everything earlier. Afterall, a couple was supposed to shoulder things together, good or bad.Taehyung learnt his lesson too late. Regret and shame burned in his chest.One evening, he was slouching on the sofa in the living room when he heard the soft click of the front door opening.Jungkook strode in, swinging a takeaway bag in his hand. He toed off his leather boots and crossed the wide space towards the living area. He took in the mess of toppled beer cans and potato chips packets sprawled on the coffee table.Setting down the takeaway bag, Jungkook removed his outercoat and draped it over the sofa while keeping his eyes on Taehyung’s slackened form.His tone as he spoke to Taehyung was sarcastic. “Are you prepping for your funeral or something? Thinking of how to pose inside the coffin? The last time humanity checked, there’s only one position inside that box.”Taehyung sat up, felt the rush of blood bursting into his head at the sudden movement. He pressed his fingers against his eyes. “You are early today. Shouldn’t you be at Escrow’s meeting now?”“It ended early thanks to my efficiency and charms. They’re signing the contract tomorrow and thereafter the ball’s in our court to kickstart the timelines.”“Good job,” Taehyung said.“It’s the only thing you say these days.” With a heavy exhale, Jungkook arranged the empty cans in a neat cluster, and swept the chip packets and crumbs into a trash bag.He flopped down beside Taehyung and slid a takeaway box on the coffee table towards him. “Dumpling noodles tonight.”“Thanks,” the alpha said.As they had their dinner, updates on affairs in the office and ongoing business projects dominated their conversation.After their return to Seoul, Jungkook’s antagonism towards Taehyung had mellowed down by large degrees, making their fight in LA a detached dream. The only signs of their fight were the bruises and cuts on their faces and bodies, which colours were fading with each passing day.In place of Taehyung, Jungkook had temporarily taken over the reins of the company. Mostly, Taehyung just worked from home on matters that didn’t require his physical presence.A reason was that it would look bad to employees if the both of them were to appear in the office with injuries on their faces. So they’d concocted a story, that Taehyung would be working from home due to personal affairs, whereas Jungkook would present himself with a story that he’d been mugged by pickpockets on the streets of LA. So far, people in the office appeared to have believed their fictional encounters.When there were no other office updates, Jungkook veered the conversation towards matters of the heart. He said to Taehyung, his voice low and quiet, “He’s out there, still alive in this mortal world, but you’re acting as if he’s dead.”Taehyung closed his eyes, shoved away the pain that threatened. “We already discussed that we’re not going to talk about this.”“Avoidance won’t solve the problem.” Jungkook insisted. “I don’t get a clue why you’re not going to him. You love him. He loves you. This is unlike you, cousin.”Focusing on his food but no longer eating, Taehyung didn’t speak for some time. It didn’t escape him that Jungkook had been finding importune times to slip Jimin into their conversations.He set his half-eaten food down. Food to him tasted like chalk these days. He said, “I can’t give him happiness.”With a touch of exasperation, Jungkook said, “Not that again. You’re already past brooding over your insecurities. Find a better reason.”Truth was, Taehyung wanted Jimin back, but he didn’t know how to do it.He was afraid that if he’d explained everything and Jimin still wouldn’t forgive him, he might do something crazy which the both of them would regret.Jimin deserved someone better, Taehyung concluded. Someone who wouldn’t make him feel so insecure and sad that he’d run away from him.Perhaps in the foreseeable future, Jimin would find someone else. The notion of the boy in the arms of another alpha hurt and angered Taehyung like burning fire in hell.His eyes drifted back to Jungkook, who had resumed eating.But if that alpha was Jungkook… Taehyung supposed he could stomach in the pain. In fact, Jungkook was a better match for Jimin. His cousin would no doubt take good care of the boy and give him the wholesome love he deserved.Watching his cousin, Taehyung returned to the subject. “You mentioned that you would look for him if I don’t. Perhaps you should.”The atmosphere tensed. Jungkook sliced him a hard look, his chopsticks and the accompanying trail of noodles freezing mid-air.“You know I was goading you, no?” His voice laced with insult, maybe even hurt, at the alpha’s insinuation. “You looked so dead that you needed something to push you.”“Do you have feelings for Jimin?” Taehyung arrowed straight to the point, disregarding the tightening sensation in his chest.Jungkook cocked his head slightly to one side, his eyes darkening as he stared at Taehyung, locking them both in silent battle.It was Jungkook who gave in first as he muttered coldly, “Thanks for relegating me to the likes of your brothers. You’ve not only insulted me, but Jimin too. You should fuck off if you think I will fill in for you because you’re a cowardly bastard.”Taehyung slumped his back against the sofa in defeat.What the fuck was he thinking? That Jungkook would take Jimin away from him?His cousin would never do that. Throughout the years, Jungkook was the only constant in his life, had always defended their brotherhood like a badge of honour.This had also been why Taehyung, as he now realised, had never harboured suspicions whenever Jungkook and Jimin were together without him. He trusted Jungkook just as much as he trusted Jimin.Guilt consumed Taehyung.  “Sorry, I haven’t been in the right mind these days.”Jungkook chucked his now empty container aside. “Enlighten me. Why is it so bloody difficult for you to keep calling him?”“He’s not picking up my calls.”“You already stopped calling him. Find him.”“I don’t know where he is.”“Excuses. If you want something, you find a way. You always do.”Taehyung said nothing.Jungkook straightened and slapped his own thighs as if he was gearing for action. He declared loudly, “Since I’m coming here every day, I might as well put up here for the time being. It’s a bitch driving home in this weather.” Ignoring Taehyung’s perplexed gaze, he continued, “You recently fixed up a new studio room for Jimin, yeah? It’d be a waste not to occupy it. I’m gonna check it out.”“No.” Taehyung shot to his feet at the same time as Jungkook. “That’s his room. Use one of the other rooms if you want to stay here.”“Really?” His cousin lifted his chin with a sceptical glower. “But isn’t he no longer coming back? I want that room. I prefer things to be new.”Disquiet seized Taehyung. “Stop it, you fucking-”But Jungkook was already out of his sight and bolting up the stairs towards Jimin’s room.Taehyung gave chase, sprinted up the stairs and down the hallway after Jungkook, yelling for him to stop. Yet it was too late as his cousin had already pushed open the door to the studio room and disappeared inside.As Taehyung neared, his blood pumped wildly in his veins. So far, Jimin’s room was the only place he hadn’t entered since his return from LA. But he was stepping in now, breaking his promise to Jimin that he’d never enter his sanctuary without his permission. Another broken promise. Jimin’s scent, faint and far, lingered in the air. The boy had kept the room tidy and neat. A heavy feeling stabbed at Taehyung’s heart as he stood at the centre, taking in the place.He walked over to the long work desk where Jungkook stood, looking at the feathery snow falling outside the window. Taehyung’s eyes travelled down to the desk, at the neatly arranged art supplies and sketched books which told him that Jimin had been working here. A pile of sketches under a puppy paperweight caught his attention.He removed the paperweight and picked up the papers. He leafed through the sketches in slow, surreal motions as Jungkook stood beside him, watching silently.The sketches depicted drawings of the same object, as though its owner was redrawing and refining the artwork until it was perfect. And that perfection, Taehyung now recognised, was the final product imprinted on the watch he’d found chucked under the bed of the hotel suite. In those moments of insanity, he’d been crazy enough to think that Jimin could be hiding under the bed. But of course, the boy hadn’t and what Taehyung had found was a watch box.Jimin’s gift to him wasn’t simply customised, but that boy had taken a great deal of effort and time to design something from scratch. It explained why Jimin had refused to show his face while they were chatting on FaceTime. He wasn’t just teasing Taehyung, but busy preparing his gift.The realisation doubled his pain.“Did you ever tell him how you feel? Like, properly?” Jungkook’s question knocked him off guard.Taehyung’s breath felt uneven as his eyes glazed over the sketches. “No. He told me twice that he loved me. I… didn’t say it back.”For a few fleeting seconds, Jungkook looked as if he was ready to beat the crap out of him again. But he controlled his fists and said to Taehyung, “You still believe that telling someone you love them will ruin the good things. What the hell.”Taehyung murmured, heavy with regret. “I should’ve told him.”He hadn’t said those words because he stubbornly, naively believed that his actions were enough to express his feelings.But words matter too.“I should’ve told him…” Taehyung repeated in a whisper, more to himself than anyone else.“You think it’s too late now?” Jungkook asked.Saying nothing, Taehyung held the sketches together and brought it close to his face. He had no answers. Silence roared in his ears. Pain destroyed him.He heard Jungkook’s intake of breath, his voice quiet with resignation. “This is the last time. I won’t ask you about your personal affairs again. You choose whether you want to give up or try again. Either way, what have you got to lose?”Jungkook retreated from the room, leaving Taehyung alone. Moments later, he saw the car pulling out of the driveway from the window.Taehyung slumped into the chair and covered his face with his hands.What had he got to lose? A lot.He shuddered at the thought.When he dragged his face away from his hands, his fingers came away wet.Tears slipped down his face and fell onto the sketches he was holding.He didn’t cry when his father had rejected him repeatedly in his growing up years.He didn’t cry when Jin had broken his heart, when he’d stumbled upon his brothers’ betrayal against him.He didn’t cry when his grandmother passed away.But for the first time in years, Taehyung surrendered himself to his tears. He slumped forward, his face in his hands and the papers fluttered to the floor.He cried, letting his big, heaving sobs take him away.*** Towards the end of his second week, Jimin played a bigger role helping his parents out in the farm. His parents had hired a handful of workers but with most of them on holiday for the year end season, Jimin made himself useful by taking stock of orders and making the deliveries. On some mornings, if he wasn’t packing the fruits, he would make a trip to town on his father’s pickup truck for the deliveries.Slowly, he was picking himself up. The trick, he’d discovered, was to keep himself really busy so that he would stop thinking about Taehyung. This morning, he’d woken up with a stronger sense of purpose.Jimin knew he would have to find a new job soon. He had the farm’s debts to think about and he was indeed starting to fret over his finances. From his mental calculations, he believed that he could put off finding a new job for another three months at most. He had accumulated some savings, a big part of which were returns of investments which Taehyung had made for him. The money would tide him through this period. Then, he would have to come up with another plan.On the drive home after his last delivery, he brainstormed for ways to make money but failed miserably. He didn’t want to go back to escorting again. The idea haunted him and his insides churned with nausea at the idea of letting someone else touch and kiss him. Someone else other than Tae-Jimin forced the break on his thoughts, steered them back to the farm.He would talk to his parents about it, he decided.A major flaw of his, Jimin had come to notice, was that he always tried to shoulder everything by himself. And when things spun out of control, he crumbled and the situation got worse. He wasn’t going to make the same mistake again.His parents, who had been managing the farm since his birth would know better. He would talk to his parents and they would figure a way out together.After dinner that evening, he sat with his parents in the living room with a plate of cut fruits on the coffee table.“The farm debts?” his mother looked up at him and understanding settled in her gaze. She put her fork down on the fruit plate. “Actually, we’ve been planning to talk to you about it.’ She turned to her husband sitting beside her, cueing him to take over.Straightening his back, his father scratched the back of his head with a jovial grin. He said to Jimin, “Thanks to the money you send each month, we were able pay the instalments in time to avoid higher interests. There have been changes, but we didn’t want to alarm you until they are sorted out. The stuff came in this afternoon while you were out.”“What came in this afternoon?” Jimin’s confused eyes moved to and fro his parents. “Did something happen to the farm?”“Yes,” his father nodded. From the smiles on his parents’ faces, it didn’t seem like bad news and Jimin’s puzzlement rose.His father retreated to the bedroom and came back with a manila folder.“Perhaps you should take a look at these first.” His father urged, handing the folder to him.Intrigued, Jimin took the folder and pulled out the documents inside. He was aware that his parents were watching him with a mixture of nervousness and hope.At first, he thought his eyes were playing tricks with him. He stared in disbelief at the deed he was holding.Then he read the printed words on the deed again and again to make sure it wasn’t some early April fool’s joke.But no, this was no joke. The thick paper was indeed the deed for the strawberry farm, with his parents’ names printed under the ownership section.The red wax seal of the Land’s Registry confirmed the authenticity and below the seal, Jimin noted that the ownership of the farm had taken effect two weeks ago.Something amiss hit him.Propelled by confusion, he reached out for the other document in the folder. The six-page document was a loan agreement between his parents and…His heart galloped, then halted at the lender’s name. Kim Taehyung.His fingers shook lightly while his brain scrambled to process everything.“Maybe we can explain a bit first?” his mother prompted gently, gauging Jimin’s response.He lifted his eyes from the papers to his parents’ concerned faces.His mother began. “Two weeks ago, a gentleman who introduced himself as Kim Taehyung, your employer, came looking for us to discuss about the farm.”Jimin’s eyes rounded at the news. “The both of you met Taehyung?”His father slurped on his warm tea, then took over from his mother to explain. “That Kim boy – Kim Taehyung, is he? Came off a bit arrogant to Appa. Can’t figure out where he got that confidence from. He said he was the owner of V Inc, the company you’re working at and would like to help us with the farm’s problems. He had received word that the previous landlord was going to sell us out without warning. Got his hands burnt in the stock market, that old man. But that Kim boy got wind of the information and bought over the farm before the landlord could get ride of it. When he came looking for us, the farm was already his, but he wanted us to take it.”Mind reeling with disbelief, Jimin’s grip on the papers hardened. He set the documents on the table and took a breath to steady himself. “Why wasn’t I informed? I-I mean, what if it was a scam?” Anyone could claim to be any person and Jimin trembled at the possibility that an impersonator could have knocked on his parents’ door with malicious intent.His father shook his head with a throaty laugh. “You’re right. Omma and I thought it was a scam at first. A land for free. Sounds too good to be true. We worked so hard over the years to know there’s nothing such as free lunch in this world. But you mentioned before that you worked for V Inc in Seoul,-” Something like pride flashed in his father’s grin. “- and so we checked out the internet. Chimmy, we may be old but we are not old geezers who don’t know how to use the internet. In fact, Appa has been playing a few games on my new iPhone 11 Pro. There’s a really stimulating plant a tree game app that measures your productivity and then Puzzle and Dragons, my recent favorite and it’s-”“Appa,” Jimin’s mother cut in sharply. “You are getting out of topic.”“Opps,” his father gave his wife a bashful look, then focused on Jimin. “As I was saying, Omma and I checked the internet to confirm if that Kim boy was lying. We found V Inc’s website and a photograph of him under the CEO page. That boy… we couldn’t’ figure out why he wanted to give us a land other than he’s your employer. To confirm that he was legit, he even brought the previous landlord and a lawyer from our town with him to sooth the deal.”The more Jimin listened, the more speechless he became. Taehyung had been in Busan to see his parents two weeks ago. That meant he hadn’t been in LA for the entire week as Jimin had misunderstood. There must be something else he was missing.He asked his father, “What was your response?”The older man leaned back and folded his arms above his pudgy belly. “What do you think, Jimin?”“You said no, right?” Jimin enunciated the words carefully. His faith in his parents told him that they would not take something for free, but his heart still hammered against his throat.His father’s gleeful nod was a relief to Jimin. “Of course we said no to the offer.”His mother smiled at a memory that was taking place in her mind. “Appa almost knocked Taehyung out and wanted to kick him out of the house for suggesting that we would accept something as large as a land for free.”Jimin winced, stunned at the turn of events. “What? Appa, did you beat Taehyung up?“Oh, Taehyung!” His father clapped his hands together. “I’m so used to calling him Kim boy that I forgot his name. Nah, we didn’t kick him out in the end. He made it clear that he wasn’t leaving until things were sorted out. Stubborn boy, that Taehyung. But he knew respect with seniors, knew where not to overstep the line and your Omma is in love with him.”“Who wouldn’t love a handsome face?” his mother added, clasping her hands together with maternal pride. “We might as well tell you this, Chimmy. He helped us fix the bulb in the bathroom because Appa’s backache was aching up. At Appa’s instance, he also scrubbed the bathroom tiles and vacuumed the house. He returned the next day to help us with some farm work. Before he left, he gave a dozen of medical ointments to Appa with a referral to a chiropractor.”Jimin winced at the mental image of a domestic Taehyung. He put his palm on his forehead and sighed. “I can’t believe you put Taehyung into hard labour.”“You call these hard? It’s a test for him, putting his muscles to good use and letting him know that he can’t solve everything with money. I wanted to see how sincere he was,” his father replied, reaching out for a piece of sliced apple. Munching, he went on. “In the end we came to an agreement. The farm will be ours to keep, but we will not take it for free. So Taehyung had his lawyer draw up a separate contract in which we will make a monthly payment to him for the farm. The deed is now in our names, but we are back-paying him in instalments.” Which explained the loan agreement signed between his parents and Taehyung.At the indulgent way his parents were watching him, he knew that Taehyung hadn’t breathed a word about their relationship. Maybe his parents weren’t even aware that they had been in a relationship.“I wished Appa and Omma could have told me earlier,” Jimin muttered quietly after some time.His mother sighed, leaned forward and pressed a hand on his knee. “We’re sorry, dear. Taehyung told us that time was needed to finalise the transfer and loan contract, which only arrived today. He and us - we didn’t want to worry you. He told us you were managing some important projects for his company and would need to focus. He spoke very well of you, said you were an asset to the company.”Jimin didn’t know what to feel. On one hand, there was an immense relief as if a heavy load had been lifted off his shoulders. With the farm problem settled, he no longer had to worry about debts and the previous landlord’s unreasonable demands to speed up payment.But his relief was also mixed with guilt and an insurmountable debt that he now owed Taehyung. He’d also wronged Taehyung, denied him of the chance for an explanation by running away from him.Still… the alpha had lied to him about his business trip to Japan.He stared down at his hands, unable to say anything.“You go ahead, Appa,” his mother said to her husband. “Set things you need for tomorrow’s errands.Understanding, his father stood up. As he passed Jimin, he gave his shoulder a pat.His mother patted the empty seat his father had vacated. “Come and sit beside Omma. I want to talk to you.”Jimin did as he was told.His mother held his hand in hers. “Is Taehyung the reason you came back?”Jimin’s head dipped low, avoided her eyes. “Is it obvious?” He thought he’d made it believable that his low mood was a result of his inadaptability to a city life.“It was my guess, but I couldn’t confirm until now. Appa and I wanted to give the time you need.” His mother said. “Are you and Taehyung seeing each other?“We… were,” Jimin corrected weakly. “We had a misunderstanding. Maybe it’s no longer important to him now…he was just my employer anyway.” If it was important, the alpha would have introduced himself as his boyfriend to his parents and not his ‘employer’. A crappy mood shaded him.“Jimin.” The slight pressure in his mother’s tone had him looking up. Her warm, gentle eyes studied him. “I believe Taehyung didn’t tell us that the both of you were dating because he respects you. Perhaps he wants to say it only if you are ready to introduce him to us.”Jimin’s mouth dropped open. “I didn’t… see it that way.”“Did the both of you got into a fight?”“We didn’t fight. I…just ran away from him. I assumed he didn’t love me and I just packed and go. I…” A sharp pain rose in his chest and his words trailed off.His mother put her arms around him and like a child seeking comfort, Jimin leaned on her shoulder. He dithered between his heart and logic. “I don’t know what to do now, Omma.”“How about a call to him? Or send a text if you are not ready to talk.”Jimin thought about other things which Taehyung hadn’t told him: His past with Jin, the necklace he’d found in the alpha’s suitcase and the declaration of I love you he’d never heard from the alpha’s lips.He breathed in and out softly. “I don’t know if his heart is with me. I… want to believe that it is, but certain things said otherwise.”His mother stroked his arm. “You’re wondering if he loves you. Maybe you already know the answer, but you are not confident enough in yourself to believe it.”Jimin drew away from his mother to meet her eyes. His voice cracked, “I want to believe him but I...”“You’ll never get the answers you want if you keep running away from your problems,” his mother said, giving his hand a reassuring squeeze. “Life is a series of making choices, Chimmy. Make that choice and have faith in yourself that you will walk through it. It’s the second-guessing that eats at our lives and makes us regret.”“I will think about it,” Jimin said.His mother watched him for a hanging moment and her lips curved upward. “Only a man who loves you enough would drop all his work and rush from Seoul to Busan for things that matter to you.”Jimin blinked at his mother’s words.Just then, his father appeared and set a warm cup of hot chocolate for Jimin. He smiled down at his son, his hand resting gently on his head. “My dear child, be brave and try. If it turns out bad, you know it’s time to leave him. You’ll have no regrets. But if the outcome is good,-” the fondness in his eyes shone brighter. “Then it means Appa will have another son to take care of… Ah, this new one spells trouble, will need a lot of work.”“How is Taehyung a trouble? That boy just needs more love.” His mother said with a hint of combativeness rarely heard in her.“No, no.” His father wriggled his finger before him. “That boy is arrogant, I can feel it in his bones. But also, reasonably likeable so it doesn’t make him a gone case.”After the talk with his parents, Jimin left the house for a walk. He figured that a night walk was what he needed now to clear his mind. The turn of events wasn’t what he’d been expecting.The moon shone brightly above, a beacon of soft white in the otherwise dark winter sky.He arrived at the beach. The sound of gentle waves washing up the shore accompanied his silence, adding mood for his thoughts. He sat on the wooden bench facing the waters, sorting himself out. He kept replaying the conversation he’d had with his parents.Should he have stayed in the room back then and waited for Taehyung?Should he have, instead of running away, confronted the alpha and see what he could’ve said?He remembered Taehyung saying that he’d a lot of things to tell him. Maybe if he’d stayed, the outcome would have been different. They would be touring Disney land and other theme parks in Florida now.Two weeks had passed since then.Jimin was still afraid of the answers he would hear. But his parents were right. He couldn’t move on without answers, even if they might hurt him.A combination of uncertainty and longing clouded him. He missed Taehyung, a lot.The night got colder the longer he sat.Maybe he should check his phone first, he thought of the device that was locked away in his drawer.Freezing, he got to his feet and rubbed his cheeks with his gloves.His dejected sigh made mist upon the air.As he turned towards the main road, he lifted his head.And a short distance ahead, standing under the moonlight, was Kim Taehyung.+++End

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

At first, Jimin thought he was seeing things.Then when Taehyung started towards him in slow steps, his eyes steady on his, he knew it wasn’t the dream.The alpha had come for him.A nervous tension clenched at Jimin’s stomach and his heartbeat quickened. Taehyung halted when they were an arm’s length apart. As Jimin took him in clearly this time, his heart caved.  The sight of Taehyung - the sadness in his eyes -was so raw it hurt to see it.In the dragging infinity of time that passed, they kept their eyes locked on each other, abandoning the world around them. Taehyung was all Jimin could see and despite himself, he believed that the alpha felt the same.He took in Taehyung’s more prominent cheekbones, the visible bags under his eyes and his unkempt hair that suggested he hadn’t been taking good care of himself for days. The alpha had lost weight. His eyes were beyond dark and unfathomable, and missing that rebellious glint as though he’d surrendered in defeat.Their time apart hadn’t been kind to Taehyung either. Jimin stuffed down the emotions that threatened to spill out.Apart from the sound of waves washing ashore, the cold thick silence that cascaded upon them was the only thing Jimin could hear.It was Taehyung who spoke first, as his bleak eyes gave Jimin’s attire a quick sweep.“You shouldn’t be out here wearing these only. Where’s the coat I got you?” The low tenor of the alpha’s voice, the grief underlying it was agony to hear.Yet his question baffled Jimin. He didn’t know which coat Taehyung was talking about, since back when they were still together, the alpha had piled his wardrobe with multiple jackets and coats to prepare him for winter.Jimin glanced down at his wool jacket and fleece thermal pants which were weathered from years of washing. He was uncomfortably aware that he looked like a country bumpkin running out of fashion, a contrast to his better sense of style in Seoul.But so what? There was nothing wrong wearing what makes you comfortable.He thrusted out his chin and his answer came out more defensive than he’d expected. “I think my clothes are good enough.”A wounded expression speared Taehyung’s face and the muscles in his jaw hardened. In the next moment, he was shrugging out of his trench coat that had Jimin intuitively aware that he’d misunderstood his intentions. Taehyung was only concerned that he would catch a cold.Seeing what was coming, Jimin stepped back - he wouldn’t be able to handle any physical contact between them – but Taehyung was faster. He swung and wrapped the coat around Jimin’s smaller frame.The additional layer of warmth enveloped Jimin, along with that familiar masculine scent he’d missed terribly. He started to push, desperate to shove himself out of the alpha’s coat.“Don’t,” Taehyung’s voice came out in a rushed whisper. He locked his arms around Jimin to stop him from removing the coat.Jimin’s feet lifted slightly as his weight toppled against Taehyung, captured in his arms that still carried the same measure of strength he’d remembered. “Just don’t,” the alpha said again, a broken demand instead of a hard order.The mist of warm air from his mouth ghosted on Jimin’s face. Trapped in Taehyung’s arms, Jimin’s heart thudded hurtfully against the alpha’s chest. He inserted his hands between them to put some distance, but all he could feel was the silent beating of Taehyung’s heart against his palms. Because he didn’t want Taehyung to catch the vulnerability he was failing to conceal, he looked away.“Have you been eating?” Taehyung asked, filling in the silence again.Jimin swallowed the lump swelling in his throat. “I just had dinner.” Seconds later, he mumbled back, “Have you had yours?”“I had celery sticks during my drive here,” Taehyung said.A gush of adrenaline, probably anger, heated Jimin’s veins and had him snapping his head back at Taehyung. “And you think that’s enough for dinner?”Taehyung shut his eyes, then opened them again. “I wasn’t hungry. I’ll eat something later.”“When did you come back from LA?” Jimin asked.The mention of the city’s name seemed to hit home for the both of them.  “I came back about two weeks ago,” Taehyung confirmed. “I drove here from Seoul this morning because I couldn’t get a plane ticket.”Jimin caught a faint bruise on Taehyung’s left cheekbone and remembered Yoongi’s comment about his fight with Jungkook. It brought back unfiltered memories of his short time in the city and how humiliated and hurt he’d been.His hands curled into tiny balls against Taehyung’s chest, bunching the fabric of his sweater. “How did you find out I’m here?”Taehyung’s eyes studied him. “I looked for Yoongi this morning and found out that Hoseok’s staying with him. Your friend refused to tell me anything at first but I sort of drove him crazy in the end. When I realised that you weren’t staying with Hoseok, it didn’t take much to guess where you could be.”Jimin’s instincts waged war between pushing Taehyung away or remaining in his arms. To distract himself, he said, “Are you putting up somewhere here?”“I found lodging at a guesthouse nearby.”“Then they should be able to make some food for you.” Jimin went on pointlessly.It was ironic, how the cracks in their relationship infiltrated so deep that they needed small talks to cushion whatever remains between them.“I want to talk to you.” Taehyung led them back to the crux of his visit.  His arms around Jimin yielded no signs of letting go. “You are talking to me now,” Jimin said.“Not this,” Taehyung’s gaze softened but he was undeterred. “I want to talk about us, Mochi.”Mochi. The pet name the alpha’d given him brought back a contradicting mixture of emotions, sweetness and torture.Jimin held back his tears, forcing himself to remember that he was – should be – still angry with him.When he said nothing, Taehyung gave in. “We’ll just talk. I owe you a proper explanation. For the last time, please.” He let go of him. As the alpha’s arms left him, Jimin felt a flow of heavy emptiness.“Fine, let’s talk,” he said, grounding on his strength despite the heartbreak. Sometimes, when you said ‘Yes’ to people, you also had to make sure you were not saying ‘No’ to yourself. It was a precious lesson Jimin had learnt.Hence, the minute they arrived at the guesthouse which Taehyung was putting up at, Jimin insisted that the alpha take a warm shower first. Until Taehyung had freshened up, he was not going to talk to him. If the alpha could take two weeks to come for him, another twenty minutes weren’t going to make much difference.The small bedroom held just enough space for a queen-sized bed and a tiny square table with two chairs at the opposite ends.  With Taehyung in the shower, Jimin turned on the heater to warm the parquet flooring. Then, he stepped out of the room and padded downstairs to the kitchen to see if the lady landlord, who also happened to be his mother’s friend was still up.The aroma of warm food wafted in the air when Taehyung stepped out of the bathroom, drying his hair with a towel. A bowl of buckwheat noodles and a plate of steamed dumplings waited for him on the table where Jimin was sitting at.“Eat,” Jimin said, keeping his eyes on the food.Taehyung started towards him. “Jimin, I wanted to let you know-”“Eat,” he insisted.Taehyung let out a long breathe of sigh and gave in. “Okay.”He took the chair across from Jimin. He blew at his noodles and started shovelling down in big bites.“Eat slowly,” Jimin said. “Chew properly before you swallow.”Taehyung slowed down, stealing cautious glances at Jimin as he tucked in.When he had finished and set the bowl aside, Jimin began. “Now, we will talk. I will start first.” He stowed his hands under the table and began quietly. “I found out about the title deed. Why did you do that?”Taehyung rubbed his face. He drew in a silent breath and let it out. “I had my people keeping tabs on the farm and its previous landlord for a while. It’s to make sure that the landlord doesn’t have something up his sleeves. Two weeks ago, I got wind of that sneaky bastard trying to sell the farm to a third party. His other investments went bust and he needed cash to tide over, but he had no plans to repay the instalments which your parents had already paid.”Jimin’s mouth dropped open. “Are you saying that he was profiting from my parents’ money while trying to sell the farm behind their backs?”Taehyung nodded. His mouth flattened into a tight line of distaste. “That bastard wanted to have his cake and eat it. He knew your parents couldn’t afford to pay a lumpsum for the farm and he wanted to sell it fast. He got in touch with an urban developer who had other plans for the land. There was an urgency to stop him and hence I made the last call to fly here to negotiate with him.”Jimin trained his eyes on a random spot on the table. “You lied to me about flying to Tokyo for a business trip.”Taehyung’s shoulders tensed with remorse and he pinched his eyes. “I’m sorry, Jimin.” His tired eyes met his. “I didn’t tell you because I wasn’t a hundred percent certain if I could persuade the landlord to sell the farm to me. The only way for me to find out was to come here immediately.”“What did you do to persuade him to sell it to you?”“I found some dirt about his businesses and used them as a bargaining chip. I also told him I would get your parents to sue him if he doesn’t honour his agreement to let them have the farm. That bastard laughed in my face and thought I was joking, until he found out about my background and knew I was serious.”Jimin contemplated Taehyung’s explanation. He knew that with the alpha’s wits and cautious nature, he was probably the one who arranged for a lawyer to draw up those agreements to protect his parents’ interests and explained the legalities to them.“I wish you had talked to me about it earlier,” Jimin remarked, his fingers digging into his palms. “I thought we were equals in this relationship. While I’m grateful for your help, I wanted to be part of the solution. You shouldn’t have to bear the problem alone and moreover it’s my problem. I have the right to know, Taehyung.”“I’m sorry for everything,” Taehyung breathed out. He looked at his hands and dropped them on his lap. “I wanted to be a man you could lean on and make you happy. I planned to tell you everything once the issues were ironed out. But now I know it was wrong of me to assume that you’d let me solve your problems. I made everything worse by not telling you anything. You’re right, we should be weathering the storm together.”The alpha’s apology wrenched Jimin’s gut but he concentrated on the words he had to get out of his chest. “It’s not merely about happiness and laughter in relationship. I’d be insulted if you think I cannot bear the burden and hurt together with you.”Taehyung nodded; his expression dismayed.“And what about the necklace? Was it a token between you and Jin?” Jimin tried to keep his voice calm although the horror upon discovering the truth still lingered like a ghost in his consciousness. “I found it in your luggage.”Catching what Jimin was arriving at, Taehyung reached for his night bag and pulled out the silver pendant from the side compartment.A pricking ache poked at Jimin’s heart at the knowledge that the alpha was still carrying the necklace with him.Taehyung looked at the pendant dangling from his hand. “I more or less figured it out. It’s the dumbest mistake I’ve ever made to keep this. I once kept this thing because I couldn’t forget Jin or to be more precise, the things he and Joon did to me.” His expression was hard, becoming a little strangled as he continued, “When we were at Jeju, I threw it out of the window because I’d decided to forget him and start anew with you. The things you said to me that night changed something in me. It made me realise that whatever feelings I had left for Jin weren’t out of love, but of hatred and a sense of injustice for myself. But then you went out there in the night to find it back. I continue to keep it with me because it reminds me of you, Jimin-,” he turned to look at him, “-of how you spent the night digging in the bushes to find it, of how you had scars on your fingers because of this. I couldn’t bring myself to throw it away again. This necklace took on a different meaning when you gave it back to me.”Silence descended upon them as Jimin struggled to process the information. It wasn’t the answer he was expecting.Taehyung pushed himself off the chair and started towards the window. He slid the glass open to a cold breeze of night air. “This goddamn thing, the root of all misery.” With no hesitation, he threw the necklace out of the window and for the second time, Jimin witnessed the silver disappearing into the darkness.From the chair where he sat, Taehyung’s back was a picture of forlorn and defeat. It was as though a strong force had extinguished all the fight in him. This wasn’t the alpha he knew.Quietly, Jimin padded to Taehyung’s side and felt cold air stinging his face.“You’ll catch a cold standing here,” Jimin said. Just when he was about to slide the window close, Taehyung heaved him into his chest and turned his own back towards the window to shield him from the cold.The strong yet gentle arms that engulfed Jimin caught him by surprise.Taehyung whispered into his ear, his voice rough and sure. “You were never a replacement for anyone, Jimin. Never. It has always been you.”Jimin mumbled into Taehyung’s chest, hating the words yet unable to stop himself. “You can’t deny that Jin and I looked alike in the past. I saw the childhood photos.”Taehyung drew back to look at Jimin, his eyebrows drawn together in consternation. “It’s only a small resemblance in the looks department, but Jin’s and your personalities are worlds apart. If anything, it’s your big heart and pure soul that drew me in and made me fall head over heels for you. Yes, I hired you as an escort because I wanted my Mom to stop arranging matchmaking sessions for me. And I wanted to get back at my brothers, to show them that I can live well without them. But I didn’t pick you for the interview because you looked like Jin.” A touch of humour traced his eyes as he added, “If you can recall, your picture in the escorting application looked nothing like you back then.”Realisation dawned in Jimin, like fog clearing. “Hobi overworked on the photoshop edit.”Taehyung released a light puff of air. “That’s right. And then I fell in love with you and realised there was nothing I needed to prove to anyone else in the first place. You are not Jin or like any of my exes. You held your ground with me. You are not afraid to call me out on my bullshit. You defended me when no one else would. You stayed with me through it all even at times when I acted like a complete shithead to you.”Jimin swallowed, taking a moment to digest the words. He gently traced his forefinger on the light green bruise on Taehyung’s cheekbone. “You had a fight with Jungkook.”The alpha broke into a grin. “He started it first.”Jimin winced. “Was it bad?”“It was a draw. Namjoon and Jin were supposed to pull us apart but when Jin slapped me, Jungkook punched him back and it became TaeKook versus NamJin. We ended our fight in the freezing pool. Talk about years of pend-up frustration.”“That’s barbaric. Didn’t anyone stop you guys? What was the security doing?”Taehyung gave a shrug to imply that it was unimportant. “Placing bets, perhaps. It was a fight long due anyway. We stopped when one of us started to laugh - I think it was me - and we ended up staring and laughing at our ridiculous states, tuxedos and ripped shirts floating around us. Dad and Mom were livid though, and Auntie – Jungkook’s mom – threatened to sue us but he managed to pacify her.”And then Jimin’s gaze lowered and stopped at three uneven red lines on the area below the alpha’s collar bone that looked like angry scratches from a cat fight.“That was from Hoseok this morning.” Taehyung pouted with a measure of dramatic sadness. “He pounced on me like a ferocious cat on a mouse.”Jimin put a hand on his forehead. “God… was Yoongi there to help?”“He stood at the side with his arms crossed.”“Aww, my poor baby.”Taehyung gathered Jimin into his arms again, his lips brushing against his hair. “I deserve all these. But I don’t care if it’s the world against me. They can do what they like. I don’t care, as long as you are by my side, Jimin. I want to give you fireworks and shooting stars again.”“Wait,-“ Jimin turned away and freed himself from Taehyung’s arms, confusing the alpha.For the first time as he spoke, Jimin was clearheaded, the thick grey clouds no longer shadowing his mind. “You and I – We need time to think about this.”Taehyung inclined his head, worry lining his face. “What are you getting at?”Jimin glanced away hesitantly. “I don’t know, but don’t you feel that we’ve been going too fast all this while? We have obstacles along the way. We had fights and then we made up and the cycle repeats itself. This time, I left you because I thought I was a substitute. It’s just-”“I love you.”Jimin’s racing mind pulled its breaks. The world stopped moving“What?” He blurted out, flustered.Undeterred, Taehyung slid his hands down Jimin’s arms and cuffed his wrists, bringing his hands together. “I thought I had lost you forever when you left without a word. You disappeared from my life and everything caved. Nothing made sense anymore, Jimin. But whenever I think of you, something inside me clicks. The missing pieces of my life fall into place. You are the answer I’ve been looking for. I want to stay with you, my love. I want to marry you and have children with you. Or maybe we can start with raising a puppy first if you are not ready for babies. We’ll take it slow, as slow as you want. I want to wake up every morning with you by my side. I want to have a reason for going to work and coming home every day. And the reason is you. I love you, Park Jimin.”Jimin’s brain combusted and his heart throttled unsteadily. For long moments all he could do was stare agape at Taehyung.Undercurrents of various emotions passed through Taehyung’s steely eyes. He brought a hand to Jimin’s face and said, somewhat uncertain. “When a man has said so much to the one he loves, he expects a response. Can you say something, please? Am I too late, Jimin?”Something like sandpaper rubbed at Jimin’s throat. His reply came out in unsteady pauses. “Why… why did you talk so much all of a sudden? I... I can’t follow every word you say.”“But did you get the part on I love you? Nothing else matters as long as you catch that.”The impact of Taehyung’s confession whumped Jimin like a tornado sweeping away a house. His emotional dam erupted and he burst into loud tears.Now it was Taehyung’s turn to panic. “Oh shit- sorry- I didn’t meant to scare you. Sorry-” He lifted Jimin up in his arms and carried him to the bed. He sat on the mattress and settled Jimin on his lap, cradling him as he cried.“You’re so bad,” Jimin sobbed in Taehyung’s neck, punching him repeatedly in the chest. “Which boyfriend would go MIA for two weeks and appear out of nowhere with a bunch of confessions? It’s too overwhelming for me.”Taehyung cupped Jimin’s face and swiped away his tears with the pads of his thumbs. “My bad, I was the stupid one. I should’ve come for your earlier, but I was too caught up in my own doubts. I broke a promise I made to you. I promised you that I wouldn’t buy over the farm and yet I did.”Jimin sobbed harder, the tears wetting his hands and Taehyung’s shirt. “But this was an exception. I only wish you told me earlier.”Taehyung hugged and comforted him, tenderly picking up the broken pieces of his heart and putting them back together. The alpha brushed away the tears running down Jimin’s face, pressed tiny kisses on his eyes, his cheeks and lips.Jimin let himself cry for the last time, felt the fat tears slipping down his cheeks and the heavy weight lifting off his shoulders in gradual degrees. As Taehyung rocked and cuddled him, he felt himself healing and becoming whole again.Eventually, Jimin’s crying settled and he rested his head on Taehyung’s broad chest. Stroking Jimin’s back, Taehyung asked. “One thing baffles me - why is it so difficult for you to believe that I’m love with you?”Jimin snuggled in closer, wrapping his arms around Taehyung’s neck. “Because I really didn’t see how someone like you could love someone like me. It was silly of me to think that, but when I heard about your snowboarding trip with Jin and Namjoon, and saw the childhood photos and the necklace, I lost it and thought the worst.”“The snowboarding trip was a last-minute decision. I’m sorry, Mochi. I shouldn’t have forgotten to inform you.”“I’m still mad at myself, at you and us,” Jimin blubbered and rubbed his eyes. “What are we going to do now?”Taehyung kissed Jimin’s hair and gave soothing rubs on his arms. “We are going to have to start this again because of my profound idiocy.”Jimin breathed in the scent emanating from the skin on Taehyung’s neck. He told the alpha, “I’m still pissed off at you. All I could do for the past two weeks was eat and cry. I gained 3kg from all the eating and I have a bigger tummy now.” Then he looked straight into the alpha’s eyes and jutted out his lower lip. “Taehyung, I’m not going to have sex with you until I lost that 3kg.”For seconds Taehyung looked tortured. He rubbed the tip of his nose lightly against Jimin’s. “You can lose weight by having sex with me.”Jimin pouted. “It’s embarrassing.”“I don’t care as long as it’s your body. I love everything about you, Mochi.” Taehyung planted a quick kiss on his head. “I love your head.” A feathery peck on his nose. “I love the shape of your nose”. Then his mouth took Jimin’s in a deep, wanting kiss that stole his breath away. His lips lingered on Jimin’s as soft words escaped from his mouth. “I love your pouty lips. Everything, Jimin.”Taehyung’s words and kisses were sweet and smooth, like pouring honey and milk on Jimin’s skin. But his insides also cringed at this new, intimate side of the alpha.Taehyung nibbled at his ear lobe, sending a tickling sensation down Jimin’s spine. “I love the shape of your ears.”“Stop it,” Jimin shuddered, slapping him playfully on the chest. “You are making me uncomfortable.”The light smile that touched Taehyung’s lips broke into a full, naughty grin. “I’m going to saying this every day. I love you. Sarang heyo. Aishiteru. Wo ai ni. Te Amo.”“Oh gossshhhhh stop it!” Jimin chuckled, kicking his legs and trying to squirm out of Taehyung’s lap.Taehyung held him tighter. “Stay like this for a while more. I like holding you like that.” He slowly closed in and their mouths were an inch apart when Jimin dragged his fingers to the alpha’s lips.“There’s something else I need to say to you before it’s too late,” Jimin said, noting from the clock on the wall that it was ten minutes to midnight. “Happy birthday, Taehyung. I didn’t have a gift for you though.” “You do.”“I do?”Taehyung slid Jimin off his lap and sat him on the bed. “Give me a moment.”Jimin watched as he reached for his overnight bag and retrieved a familiar looking box.An unbelievable feeling caught Jimin’s breath. “How did you find it?”Taehyung went down on one knee before Jimin and lifted the cover off the box to reveal the watch. “I found it under the bed. I was searching for you and for a crazy moment thought you might be hiding under the bed.Jimin took the watch out of the box, eyeing the image of a white teddy bear looking up at the sky, surrounded by tiny snowflakes.“Where did you get the idea from?” Taehyung asked, his eyes on the watch in Jimin’s hands.“I asked Mrs Kim for more stories about your life before we met,” Jimin answered. “I wanted to make something close to your heart and show you that your life isn’t built on miseries and hardships. No matter how dark things are, there’s always a sparkle of light for everything we encounter. And then your Mom told me the story of about Winter Bear.”“Winter Bear,” Taehyung repeated under his breath, the rush of memories and love palpable from his face.Fiddling with the watch in his hands, Jimin went on. “Your Mom told me it was a pet name given to you by your granny. You were born in winter and when you were a child, you used to carry a teddy bear with you wherever you go.” His eyes lifted and stayed on Taehyung’s. “And you told me that your granny was an important anchor of your growing up years. I believe that because of her, you grew up to be stronger. I wanted to put this story in the form of an object that can stay with you and remind you that you are loved wherever you go.” His voice fell with bittersweet hope. “I mean, nobody knows what would happen in the future and even if I’m not in yours down the road, I hope you’ll always do well and remember you’re loved.”A film of moisture glossed over Taehyung’s eyes and he looked like his heart was going to shatter. He seized Jimin into a full-body hug.Taehyung curled his fingers in Jimin’s hair and whispered into his neck, “And you still doubted why I would fall in love with you. This is why, Jimin. You gave me hope when everything is dark.”Overcome with sentiments and a new kind of happiness, Jimin hugged Taehyung back, burying his head in the crook of the alpha’s shoulder.Taehyung released him. “Would you put this on for me?”Jimin took Taehyung’s hand. He strapped the leather around his wrist and buckled it. He smiled. “There you are, it fits.”“Thank you. This is the most meaningful birthday gift I’d ever received.Jimin cupped Taehyung’s face in his hands. He looked at the alpha’s handsome face, his angelic features and his eyes that carried the intensity of a fiery storm. Yet beneath them was a sheen of vulnerability that Taehyung would hide from others, thinking that he could shoulder the weight of the world by himself. Jimin swore to himself that moving forward, he would protect Taehyung’s vulnerability and everything that was precious to the alpha.He leaned in and kissed Taehyung on his lips. “I love you, Kim Taehyung.”Taehyung’s mouth lifted into a contented smile, erasing the last bit of sadness from his eyes. “I love you, Park Jimin.”*The last morning of the year was blanketed with a slate of white, a winter wonderland that projected a fairy-tale setting. The wind had quietened and tender snow were falling silently, sprinkling the land with soft layers of white.Holding hands, they stepped out of the guesthouse and descended down the steps. Winter had dipped its temperature to a new low which meant Jimin was supposed to feel colder. But instead of shivering from the chills, he was soaked in the warm bliss of finding back his true north, his love. He’d woken up this morning, snuggled in Taehyung’s arms, the alpha’s warm body next to his.Happiness, Jimin realised, was really simple.As they walked down the path towards the meadow that was caked with snow, the warmth in Jimin’s chest spread through him.Taehyung asked, “Do you think your parents like me?”Jimin grinned, amused by the alpha’s unexpected display of hesitation. “You already met them. Didn’t Appa almost throw you out of the house?“They didn’t, but that was before what happened,” Taehyung said. His eyes hung uncertainly as he mulled over something that was bothering him. “Do you think they will, you know.. like me as a family member?” “Hmm...” Jimin tapped his chin, pretending to consider the alpha’s question. “That’s a difficult question to answer.”“I’m the perfect, glowing son-in-law every in-law would fight to keep,” Taehyung said. The brazen self-declaration made his cheeks go crimson red that Jimin had to suppress his laughter.He challenged the alpha. “Which parent would feel at peace entrusting their only son to a man who makes him cry so much?”The swagger in Taehyung wavered. He reached out for Jimin’s hand with a serious, quiet look. “I know I have a lot to work on. And you give me hope that I can do it.”Jimin placed his other hand over the alpha’s. He looked into his eyes and smiled. “We’ll do this together. At most Appa will send you out for more farm work.” “That’s least of my concerns.” Taehyung’s features softened. “My parents like you though. They were going to disown me if I didn’t bring you back.” “Of course, they know they’re getting the better end of the bargain,” Jimin snorted, gesturing at himself in a grand motion. “I’m the only one in this universe who can keep you and your nonsenses in check.”The alpha narrowed his eyes. “Me and my nonsenses?”“The truth is difficult to handle,” Jimin slapped Taehyung’s cheek. “But better to be slapped with the truth than kissed with a lie, Kim Taehyung.”“Getting all cocky, eh?”“Talk about bad influence from someone.”Jimin let out a bark of surprise when Taehyung scooped him up and dumped him in a snow-bank.“Hey!” Jimin cried out from pile he was submerged in, scrubbing the flakes from his face. He attempted to get up from the deep snow but landed back on his butt, earning a cackle of laughter from Taehyung.The alpha trudged in the knee-deep snow towards him and offered his hand.Driven by a thirst of revenge, Jimin grabbed Taehyung’s hand and wrenched him down with all his strength.He squealed when Taehyung tickled him on the waist. They gathered and dumped snow on each other’s head, ducking and yelling. Taehyung leapt off and Jimin gave chase, tackling him down moments later and laughing wildly. They rolled in the snow, bursting with delirious laughter and abandoning themselves to their inner children.Taehyung pinned Jimin to the ground with his weight. He cupped Jimin’s wrists, holding them at the sides of his head.Jimin panted, cheeks flushed and neck warm from the snow fight. “I feel like I’m three years old again.”Taehyung smiled. “You are probably the happiest three-year old here.”He bent down and sealed their lips together.*Hours later, Taehyung found himself walking along the stretch of path lined by paddy fields, hooking arms with Jimin. The sun setting against the backdrop of the grey winter sky and the vast expanse of nature gave Taehyung a kind of peace absent in city life.But he couldn’t shake off the edginess he was feeling now. Acid churned in his stomach and his nerves wrung tighter than a windup bird. He secretly hoped that the bottle of wine he was holding in his arm would be met with approval from Jimin’s parents. Most importantly, he wished with all his heart that they would accept him with open arms.Who knew that meeting your future in-laws could be so nerve-wrecking? He’d successfully negotiated multimillion-dollar business acquisitions with a lot less trepidation than this.He halted on his tracks and Jimin stopped beside him with a curious question mark on his face. “Are you okay?”Taehyung glanced down at the navy-blue Gucci turtleneck and dark pants he was wearing underneath his trench coat. He’d straightened his clothes twice that afternoon but now he felt underdressed.  “I should’ve brought a formal attire with me.”Jimin chuckled. He extended two fingers to smooth out the tension between Taehyung’s brows. “Relax, it’s only a New Year’s Eve dinner. Appa and Omma are not going to eat you.”Taehyung took his hand and kissed his fingers. “I don’t want to embarrass you.”Jimin laughed. “Why does this conversation sound so familiar?”Taehyung’s insides flowered with a lightness that filtered his doubts away. He focused on Jimin’s smile, the entirety of the boy’s joy that completed his life. He held onto Jimin’s hand, their fingers interlacing. The boy’s hand was smaller than his, but it held Taehyung’s whole universe.Jimin squeezed his hand. His eyes were steadfast as he said, “You will be fine. I will be by your side.”He looked deep into Jimin’s eyes. A smile formed at the corners of Taehyung’s mouth.“You’re right. Let’s go.”+++End

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Dear Readers,How have you all been?This has been a year with many unprecedented challenges, one which constantly had us rethinking and re-evaluating our values and priorities. I hope you are well and have found ways to cope with the challenges, and remain steadfast and calm.I’m just dropping by to let you know that I have started a mini-sequel to this story. It will be a continuation of VMin’s life after their reconciliation.Below’s the link to the sequel:Carry On, Park JiminFeel free to take a look!Take care, everyone.Twitter: MerryNeptuneIf you enjoyed this story and would like to buy me coffee: https://ko-fi.com/merryneptune  Cheers,Merry Neptune